Gold ESC 2017 by Reinhard Schnitzer

ESC Participants in Kyiv 2017 Albania Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Belarus Belgium Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia F.Y.R. Macedonia Finland France Georgia Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland

04 16 03 02 08 15 05 16 12 15 14 09 18 04 07 F 02 F 10 08 13 10

Israel Italy Latvia Lithuania Malta Moldova Montenegro Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland The Netherlands Ukraine United Kingdom

19 F 18 17 05 12 06 13 11 09 06 03 11 01 17 F 01 14 07 F F

Notes on this interactive table of contents : - A click on the country name takes you to the relevant information and content of the participant. - Right after the country names you'll see the starting points of the contribution in the first semifinal (green) , second semifinal (blue) and the already known finalists (yellow): Ukraine and the big 5 (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom) The running order of the Final will be known after the announcement of all the finalists. - General Wikipedia information about the participating countries will be displayed by clicking on the flag-symbols. - A click on the heart symbol will provide you with information on the history of the country as an ESC participant. - A click on the home symbol on the participants pages will take you back to this page / the table of content.

2 | 3

Dear friends and Eurovision Song Contest fans, welcome to the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) in Kiev or Kyiv, because that is the official name of the capital and largest city of Ukraine and this year's host of the contest thanks to last years winning song "1944"", performed by Jamala. This was the first time since the introduction of professional jury voting in 2009 that the overall winner won neither the jury vote, which was won by Australia, nor the televote, which was won by Russia. And in addition to that it was the first time since the voting had been radically transformed in 2016: In previous years the results of the professional juries and viewers have been presented as a combined result, each accounting for 50 percent of the final score. From 2016, the professional juries and televoters from each country will each award a separate set of points from 1 to 8, 10 and 12. This now means the top 10 countries in both the jury and televote will receive points, but instead of adding a new level of excitement to the show it ended up in a big unexpected result. Fact is: "1944" won and became a highly acclaimed winner in Europe with peak chart positions in Belgium (13), Spain (32), Hungary (40) and Sweden (46). One year ago I wrote "Even though if one doesn’t cares very much about politics these days one has to admit that Europe experiences high turbulences during a difficult ride into the future, which is characterized by human tragedies, terrorism, wars and disasters." We all know that this ride has become even more dangerous during the last 12 month and therefore it would have been even more important to believe in the original idea of the Eurovision Song Contest, which led to this year's ESC motto "CELEBRATE DIVERSITY". But as it turned out - even at this very moment - this motto seemingly wasn't internalized by every country. Up to the moment I write this lines there is no compromise being made regarding Julia Samoylova’s travel ban to Ukraine in the lead up to this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. Therefore I can only hope that some politicians and countries will stop using the Contest as a political battleground and that our beloved ESC idea will see brighter days in the future. Despite all hassles , disputes and clashes and despite all what is going on not only in Europe but in the whole world: I hope you are able to enjoy this year's edition of our GOLD ESC webzine and the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv in a happy and peaceful atmosphere - be it at home in front of your TV or in Kyiv in front of the stage or where ever you are.... Kind regards, Reinhard Schnitzer and the GP Team

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Special Features Click the pics to view the content

DJ Alan T: The Eurovision Song Contest over the years from his point of view.

The Life & Times of Corry Brokken - A biography by Reinhard Schntzer -

§ Please note: This is NOT an official program from the EBU or any sponsors. This GOLD ESC Edition is published on Issuu without any commercial background or interest. It does not include paid advertising and is intended only as a practical guide for ESC aficionados and fans who want a quick overview. If content or presentation of this webzine violates the rights of third parties or legal regulations, we ask for notification without issuing a debit note. Justifiably criticized content will be removed immediately, so that the involvement of a lawyer is not necessary. If you still initiate costs without prior contact, we completely reject and may submit a counter-claim for breach of the rules in this paragraph.

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SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

01 SWEDEN Songwriter

David Kreuger Hamed "K-One" Pirouzpanah Robin Stjernberg I CAN‘T GO ON I can’t go on, I can’t go on

Gotta keep it together Don’t get me wrong Don’t get me wrong Cause baby you make me better Hey, With just one look you make me shiver I just wanna take you home Wanna go OH Yeah I wanna go OOH Now girl you make me a believer I wanna take off all my clothes wanna go OH You make me wanna go OH I just can’t go on no more When you look this freakin´ beautiful ooh Hands down to the floor my love And I’m doing - Whatever you want I can’t go on I can’t go on When you look this freakin´ beautiful I can’t go on I can’t go on When you look this f freakin´ beautiful

Participant

Song

ROBIN BENGTSSON

I CAN’T GO ON

Robin Bengtsson started playing guitar as a 13-year-old Robin, after several years focused on the trumpet. A whole new musical world opened up for him . Now he could sing while he played. His talent for singing surprised both him and those close to him. Robin, however, came quickly to the conclusion that this was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. In 2008 he applied for Idol and knocked the jury completely with his soul inspired and adult voice, his 17 years of defiance. He finished in a respectable third place. Since then he has toured Sweden with his band, wrote and released songs and amassed an incredible amount of experience and confidence. Robin Bengtsson went directly to the final of last year's Eurovision Song Contest with the contribution “Constellation Prize”. The song has passed the double platinum mark and has remained in the top ten on the radio list of over fourteen weeks. This year Robin won the Melodifestivalen with the song "I Can’t Go On“ and therefore will perform for Sweden in Kyiv during the Eurovision Song Contest.

You’ve got me good You’ve got me good And I’m not going nowhere Right in your hook That’s understood But Im take you to somewhere I just can’t go on no more When you look this freakin´ beautiful Hands down to the floor my love And I’m doing - Whatever you want

I CAN‘T GO ON

I can’t go on, I can’t go on When you look this f freakin´ beautiful I can’t go on, I can’t go on When you look this freakin´ beautiful So freakin´ beautiful Baby I just can´t go on I can’t go on, I can’t go on When you look this freakin´ beautiful I can’t go on I can’t go on When you look this freakin´ beautiful So f freakin´ beautiful Baby I just can´t go on

4 | 5

Robin Bengtsson

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

02 GEORGIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Anri Jokhadze Tamara Gachechiladze

TAMARA GACHECHILADZE

KEEP THE FAITH

Tamara “Tako” Gachechiladze first ever appeared on the stage in front of the live audience at the age of 8 as a participant of a Fairies’ Contest. She then became the holder of an award as the most musical fairy contestant. Tako was a soloist of “Basti Bubu” (kids’ choreography and music studio). Already in childhood she was a busy participant of various kids’ show programs and winner of a range of international contests. At the age of 11 Russian TV station "Ren-TV” named Tako at the New Year musical program as the “Discovery of the year”. In 2001 Tako took the first position at the Ukraine’s contest “More Drusey”. In 2002 she became the winner of International festival of arts “Slaviansky Bazar”( First Prize). She graduated Tbilisi Conservatory as a chorus conductor.

Who told you to get out of the way? Don't you let them steal your dreams Feel the courage spread your wings and breathe Keep the faith, keep the faith Remember you are not alone Hold my hand and come along you Keep the faith, keep the faith Don't let nobody turn you down Even if the world is rough Oh! oh! oh! oh! Ooh! you got to stand on your own Crowd hear me out! The world needs more love! Keep the faith, keep the faith Remember you are not alone Hold my hand and come along Keep the faith, keep the faith Don't let nobody turn you down Even if the world is rough Oh oh ooh keep the faith!

In 2005-2006 Tako was invited to Germany by a musical producer Zaza Laperashvili and Christian Lohr, a composer, where she recorded several songs and held concerts in Berlin, Munich and Newburg. Tako Gachechiladze was awarded as one of star song’s performer at musical contest “Patrinoti-2007”. She took part in eurovision contest in georgia,Tako has been granted a Order of Honor for her contribution to the arts and extending good will throughout the world. Since 1998 she is a soloist of Tbilisi Concert Orchestra named “Big Band”. As a member of the quartet Stephane & 3G, she was going to represent Georgia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2009 with the song "We Don't Wanna Put In", until the group's entry was disqualified for political content. But this year - as a solo artist - she will represent Georgia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song "Keep the Faith".

KEEP THE FAITH

Tamara Gachechiladze Voice Of Eurovision

6 | 7

Â© Photo: Giorgi Tsaava

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

03 AUSTRALIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

DNA (David Musumeci & Anthony Egizii), Michael Angelo

ISAIAH

DON‘T COME EASY

Isaiah (full name: Isaiah Firebrace) is an Australian singer who won the eighth season of The X Factor Australia in 2016. Isaiah auditioned for the eighth season of The X Factor Australia, singing a cover of Adele's "Hello", he made it through to Bootcamp where he perfromed a cover of Alicia Keys' "If I Ain't Got You", he made it through to the live shows. He reached the Grand Final after making it through the live shows. The Grand Final took place on 21 November 2016 and he performed Beyoncé's "Halo", Avicii's "Wake Me Up" with Jessica Mauboy and he also performed his winners single "It's Gotta Be You", winning the contest. His winner's single peaked at number 26 in the Australian Singles Chart. The song also charted in Denmark, Netherlands, New Zealand and Sweden. Isaiah released his debut studio album “Isaiah” on 9 December 2016. The album peaked at number 12 on the Australian Albums Chart.

I can tell by your eyes you want more than this But can we be much more beyond these sheets No I don’t - Don’t wanna mess with your head But my love It’s hard to love again It don’t come easy And it don’t come cheap Been burned too many times To love easily Don’t mistake me My love runs deep But it don’t come easy It don’t come cheap No not with me I used to move in fast to erase my past But it never works no it never lasts no In my mind - I gotta get things right Take it slow, before I jump this time No it don’t come easy No it don’t come cheap Been burned too many times To love easily Don’t mistake me My love runs deep But it don’t come easy It don’t come cheap No not with me

Isaiah reported that he was interested in representing Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest, and put his name forward for possible participation in the 2017 contest. On 7 March 2017 broadcaster SBS announced that they had internally selected Firebrace to represent Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv, Ukraine with the song "Don't Come Easy“.

DON‘T COME EASY

And if you think I’ve got a heart of stone You couldn’t be more wrong Ooh You might think I’ve been afraid too long Afraid of love But it don’t come easy Been burned too many times To love easily - Don’t mistake me My love runs deep, but it don’t come easy It don’t come cheap, no not with me Ooh No not with me, Ooh don’t mistake me My love runs deep, but it don’t come easy It don’t come cheap, no not with me

Isaiah Firebrace isaiahfirebraceofficial.com

8 | 9

Â© Photo: Peter Brew-Bevan

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

04 ALBANIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Klodian Qafoku Lindita, Big Basta

LINDITA

WORLD

Lindita (real name: Linda Halimi) began her singing career in 2003.Her family knew from the start she was destined and gifted,so in the age of 14 Linda enrolls in music school at the nearest town Gjilan, studied for music theory,vocal coaching,and piano. in 2007 after being a finalist in "Albanian Idol",Linda joins a band and together they come up with "Ngroba"-Band- (means: Global Warming). She has won many local, national,and international awards throughout the years: "The Voice Awards"- Local festival, 2004 KOSOVO "Albanian Idols - Ethet e se premtes mbrema"- Top 9 Finalist, 2005 ALBANIA "Top Fest 4"- Best New Artist, 2007 ALBANIA "Rock per Rock Festival"-Local festival,Second Place, 2008 ALBANIA "Top Fest 5"- Vodafone Club Favourite band, 2008

We're so alike, yet different At a loss for words, stutterin' It don't make sense, what's happening I just don't understand Aaah Can u hear my painful cry A battle just to be alive What's this fight all for? What's the cost of life In this world? Almost impossible Is let the love unite us all... Does anybody care I'm Weak and i'm afraid Wondering if I Will make it thru this day.. For the life of me I refuse to be Anything but free But I'm tired of all the battling... What's this fight all for? What's the cost of life In this world? All I ever really waaant Is let the love unite us all... Let the love unite us all Oooh, Oooh Let the love unite us all

In 2009 Linda went solo and was invited to join "Top Fest" Festival again in Albania where she receivedthe most votes and wins the "Grand Prize" First place. Also in 2009 She gets awarded "Best Rock" in "Kenga Magjike" music festival, and also in "KOSOVO SINGS" aftre winning that festival too. She has written all her songs, and wrote many famous artists songs back in her country. In February 2013 she moved to USA with her husband, and she gets discovered by producers who produced the show for Motown Records's 50th anniversary tribute. In 2016 Linda participated in the final season of American Idol. She was eliminated after finishing in the Top 51, when eventual runner-up La' Porsha Renae beat her out for the final female spot in the Top 24. She will represent Albania in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song "Botë", after winning Festivali i Këngës 55.

WORLD

Lindita linditamusic.com

10 | 11

ÂŠ Photo: Fadil Berisha

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

05 BELGIUM Songwriter

Pierre Dumoulin Emmanuel Delcourt Ellie Delvaux CITY LIGHTS All alone in the danger zone Are you ready to take my hand? All alone in the flame of doubt Are we going to lose it all? I could never leave You and the city lights I could never beat The storm in your eyes The storm in your bright eyes All alone in the danger zone Are you ready to take my hand? All alone in the flame of doubt Are we going to lose it all?

Participant

Song

BLANCHE

CITY LIGHTS

Inspired by her older brother Oliver Lord, who's a singer, Blanche (real name: Ellie Delvaux) started singing and playing the guitar and piano takes from a very young age, always curious to discover new instruments. Age 16,she took part in the fifth season of The Voice Belgium, under her real name Ellie Delvaux, and was selected by French pop act Cats On Trees. She went all the way to the semifinals, and was praised for her touching performances and atypical timbre. After the show ended, she was contacted by Pierre Dumoulin (from the band Roscoe) who offered to try and write some demos for her. They immediately clicked, and after a few writing sessions, they were ready to premier the tracks for Pierre’s record company [PIAS]. Subsequently, Belgian national radio-television RTBF fell head over heels for one of the songs, and proposed she enter the Eurovision song contest. Later this year, Blanche will represent Belgium in Kyiv during the 62nd Eurovision song contest, while at the same time writing and recording her debut EP.

Love came in between The space in the city lights Only I receive The stars in your eyes The stars in your dark eyes All alone in the danger zone Are you ready to take my hand? All alone in the flame of doubt Are we going to lose it all?

CITY LIGHTS

Let’s put some light into our lives But keep the storm that’s in your eyes Let’s put some light into our lives All alone in the danger zone Are you ready to take my hand? All alone in the flame of doubt Are we going to lose it all?

Blanche blanche-music.com

12 | 13

ÂŠ Photo: Marie Wynants

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

06 MONTENEGRO Songwriter

Participant

Song

Adis Eminić Iva Boršić Momcilo Zekovic Zeko

SLAVKO KALEZIC

SPACE

Slavko Kalezić is a Montenegrin actor, singer and songwriter, who studied at the Academy of Performing Arts at Cetinje, Montenegro and later became a part of Ensemble of the Montenegrin National Theatre. He appeared on various stages and appeared in films.

Linen is covered with feathers Wet dreams, wild nightmares, I surrender Come into me from within We can be as one in the sin The spaceship is ready to blow Drunk in love, I'm gonna explode Be my Bonnie, will mix and match with Clyde Let's explore this galaxy of stars I have my suit on, no need to worry Give me your body, let's write a story Our body language, Rocket to the stars Show me your superpowers I'm Venus and Mars of the hour I'll protect you if you come my way Let's soar through the Milky Way

In 2011, Slavko Kalezić released the single "Muza“. In 2013 he became more prominent by competing in series 1 of X Factor Adria, the Serbian pan-regional version of The X Factor. During the Podgorica, Montenegro auditions, he sang Beyoncé's "End of Time", successfully advancing to the bootcamp for the "Over 27" category, mentored by Željko Joksimović. He sang "Get Lucky" and "Cosmic Girl, and was then promoted to the Judges' house stage, where he performed "Ljuljaj me nezno", being mentored by Joksimović, who was assisted by Toni Cetinski, but he failed to make it to the live shows and the Final 14. In 2014, subsequent to X Factor Adria, Kalezić released the album “San o vječnosti”. Singles included most notably "Krivac", "Feel the Music", and "Freedom“. After weeks of behind-the-scenes deliberations RTCG announced that Slavko Kalezic will represent the Montenegro at Eurovision 2017 in Kyiv, Ukraine. He will sing “Space”.

Takin' off, we're takin' off, takin' off In space we can be as one

SPACE

Slavko Kalezić

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

07 FINLAND Songwriter

Participant

Song

Lasse Piirainen Leena Tirronen

NORMA JOHN

BLACKBIRD

Two longtime friends singer Leena Tirronen, 32, and musican, keyboardist Lasse Piirainen, 34, formed the indie pop duo by the name of Norma John in 2008. Their music is full of strong cinematic feel, visuality and Scandinavian rugged beauty.

Blackbird blackbird don't sing to me Don't sing below my window Fly somewhere else don't bother me Don't sing below my window You sang when he was in my bed You sang when my heart sang Now you remind me of something I'll never have So blackbird don't sing Blackbird don't sing

Leena Tirronen got to the public attention as a contestant of X Factor 2010 show, where she finished 3rd. In late spring 2010 Tirronen signed a recording contract with Sony Music. Tirronen chose to use the name Leena Ihmemaassa (Leena in Wonderland) for her solo career. Leena's first single "Piru" was released in August 2010 and Leena Ihmemaassa's self-titled debut album was released on 29 December 2010. Five of the songs in album were written by Leena herself. Tirronen's cooperation with Sony Music ended in 2011.

Blackbird blackbird I am now alone Somewhere else go make your home Don't nestle here go find lovers of your own I am now alone

Lasse Piirainen studied in North-Kymi Music Institute, before moving to Helsinki to continue studies in pop-jazz music. In 2007 he competed in Idol contest as part of Anna Abreu's band, where he played keyboards, and after that continued touring with it. He also performed in a couple of own bands, including Plastic Superstar. In Spring 2017 he will also be co-hosting entertainment program BumtsiBum! (The Lyrics Board) on MTV3.

You sang when he was in my bed You sang when my heart sang Now you remind me of something I'll never have So blackbird don't sing Blackbird don't sing Blackbird don't sing

In January 2017 Norma John participating in the Contest for New Music (UMK) with nine other participants at the Espoo Metro Arena. The song Blackbird brought them a clear victory and Norma John is now Finland's 51st representative in the Eurovision Song Contest.

You sang when he was in my bed You sang when my heart sang Now you remind me of something I'll never have So blackbird don't sing Blackbird don't sing Blackbird don't sing

BLACKBIRD

Norma John on Uuden Musiikin Kilpailuun

16 | 17

Â© Photo: Anton Sucksdorff

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

08 AZERBAIJAN Songwriter

Participant

Song

Isa Melikov Sandra Bjurman

DIHAJ

SKELETONS

SKELETONS Standing in a mirror lane wondering what, to do

Another day and gravity’s got, got another hold of me I never dreamed that this could be happening, not to me But if he came falling down falling so hard, I started believing Now I’m into daydreams Amazed by thorn jeans Deep into high extremes When I’m with him it’s fantasy We’re just like alchemy oh I feel ready Have my skeletons [I can only trick you once, bad boy] Have my lungs, my millions [Talk is cheap don’t speak in tongues, bad boy] Drum drum drum, bring out the guns [Drum drum drum, bring out the guns, bad boy] I’m so so cursed [Fuss and fight won’t get you tons ,bad boy] The world is spinning faster by the minute and I’m longing to be saved This bitter sweet sensation got a, got another hold of me

Dihaj is an electronic music collective from Baku, Azerbaijan formed in 2014. Initially a one-man-band Dihaj expanded as Anar (guitar, synth) and Ali (drums, percussion, fx) joined the project. “We all come from completely different musical backgrounds, so our sound is quite eclectic. That’s why we’ve never really been interested in trying to pinpoint the genre of the music we play. Just play what seems right and leave the rest to the listeners, right?” – says lead vocalist Diana. Despite this, Dihaj has been already labeled by its growing fanbase as “an experimental doom pop band” for its ethereal, dark sound, its post-rock guitar riffs, semi-acoustic drum set and atmospheric vocals. Dihaj broke through with their 2014 single “I Break Again” co-written by Diana and world famous jazz pianist Isfar Sarabsky. In 2015 the band covered “Geceler Kechir”, a 90-ies pop song written by renowned Azerbaijani composer Eldar Mansurov. Their recent single “Complain” is one of the tracks from their upcoming debut LP album and a special vinyl edition, which will include “Complain” and “All Different Things”. In 2016 Azerbaijan's national broadcaster ITV announced Dihaj as the country's representative in the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest with their song “Skeletons”.

Now I’m stuck in daydreams surrounded by thorn jeans Deep into high extremes when we hook up it’s fantasy We’re just like alchemy ,I’ve never been so ready Have my skeletons [I can only trick you once, bad boy] Have my lungs, my millions [Talk is cheap don’t speak in tongues, bad boy] Drum drum drum, bring out the guns [Drum drum drum, bring out the guns, bad boy] I’m so so cursed [Fuss and fight won’t get you tons] Bad boy

SKELETONS

[I can only trick you once, bad boy] I can only trick you once [Talk is cheap don’t speak in tongues, bad boy] [Talk is cheap don’t speak in tongues, bad boy] Talk is cheap don’t speak in tongues Drum drum drum, bring out the guns [Drum drum drum, bring out the guns, bad boy] Bad boy Fuss and fight won’t get you tons, bad boy [Fuss and fight won’t get you tons] Have my skeletons [I can only trick you once, bad boy] Have my lungs, my millions [Talk is cheap don’t speak in tongues, bad boy] Have my skeletons [Drum drum drum, bring out the guns, bad boy] I’m so so cursed [Fuss and fight won’t get you tons] Have my skeletons

Dihaj dihaj.com

18 | 19

ÂŠ Photo: Haris Farsarakis

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

09 PORTUGAL Songwriter

Participant

Song

Luísa Sobral

SALVADOR SOBRAL

AMAR PELOS DOIS

AMAR PELOS DOIS If anyone ever wonders about me Tell them I have lived solely to love you Before you I only existed Worn out and with nothing left to give My love Listen to my pleas I beg you to come back To want me again

Salvador Sobral (full name: Salvador Vilar Braamcamp Sobral) was born in Lisbon, but also resided in the United States and Barcelona as a child. In 2009, he competed on season three of Ídolos, Portugal's version of Pop Idol. He placed seventh in the competition. His sister, Luísa Sobral, is also a singer who previously placed third on season one of Ídolos. In 2017 Sobral was confirmed to be taking part in Festival da Canção 2017, with the song "Amar pelos dois". He went on to win the competition on 5 March 2017, and will now represent Portugal in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017

I know That one can't love by oneself But maybe with time You will learn to love me as well If you heart Won't be wiling to give in Won't be willing to feel Won't be willing to suffer Without making plans of what will come ahead My heart can love for both of us instead

AMAR PELOS DOIS

Salvador Sobral

20 | 21

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

10 GREECE Songwriter

Participant

Song

Dimitris Kontopoulos Romy Papadea John Ballard

DEMY

THIS IS LOVE

THIS IS LOVE Holding on to what we had can be so complicated Could be time to move along And face it No more debating Watched the river running dry Now it’s time to say goodbye There’s an echo in my head There's a story still unread And I need you here tonight Walk away don’t turn around I will never let you down I won’t let you see me cry There’s an echo in my head There’s a crossroad up ahead How I want you here forever and ever and ever and ever I’m not giving up

Demy (real name: Dimitra Papadea) started taking piano lessons at the age of five, something she continues to do to this day. Also, she currently takes vocal lessons as well. Jazz, Soul, Rock and Roll, and RandB are cited as musical influences. At the 2012 MAD Video Music Awards, she won the award for Best New Artist and 2 other awards. As was mentioned in her acceptance speech, in 2011 she was watching the awards show on television and dreaming of one day winning one. One year later, her dream became a reality.Demy, along with The FaDe, also performed on the 2012 awards show. They were the first act on stage and sung “Soldier”. Demy is signed with Greek independent label Panik Records for which she released several successful albums and singles during the last years. This year she will represent Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with her song “This Is Love”.

This is love reaching out for the stars You and me as one everywhere This is love Holding on to what we had can be so self destroying Remember how we laughed and played around till night met the morning Watched the sunset in the sky There would never be goodbye

THIS IS LOVE

There’s an echo in my head There's a story still unread And I need you here tonight Walk away don’t turn around I will never let you down How I want you here forever and ever and ever and ever I’m not giving up This is love reaching out for the stars You and me as one everywhere This is love

DEMY (Official Fan Page)

ÂŠ Photo: Giannis Michelopoulos

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

11 POLAND Songwriter

Kasia Moś Rickard Bonde Truumeel Pete Barringer (DWB), FLASHLIGHT Like a bullet from a smoking gun They try to tell us that we don’t belong Creeping round at the depth of night Just two shadows in love we were ghosts Two hearts we’re invincible When we’re together we’re untouchable Haunted by if it’s wrong or right Shadows in love we were ghosts Fire, like a burning desire, Taking me higher, Walk in a wire, We will never come down It’s like a flashlight burning in our eyes You call the dogs off, I got them hypnotized You never catch us, take us by suprise Running faster at the speed of light Falling deeper got you in the sight Bringing down your eyes in the sky Like two animals on the run Not afraid to fly into the sun Invisible we don’t leave a trace We’re shadows in love we were ghosts Fire, like a burning desire, Taking me higher, Walk in a wire, We will never come down

Participant

Song

KASIA MOS

FLASHLIGHT

Kasia Moś (real name: Katarzyna Moś) is a finalist of the third edition of the "Must Be The Music". She has performed in the band "The Pussycat Dolls Burlesque Review" alongside such stars as Kelly Osbourne, Mya and Carmen Electra.Collaborated the orchestra was the recording of Paul Mykietyn "The Passion of St. Mark," Sin Piotrowski, Boris sew, a group of hip-hop nameless. She played one of the major parties in the world premiere of the musical "King Lear" Paul Mykietyn held at the Sacrum Profanum in Krakow. Her vocal compositions to the Wojciech Kilar went to the movie by Krzysztof Zanussi's "Foreign body".She sang the song to the animated film "Disco Bugs". She is the musical face of the LINK4 advertising campaign. She appeared at such festivals as: SPRING BREAK in Poznan, Rzeszow Carpathia Festival where she won first place in the Festival WOODSTOCK project "Cuba Płucisz and visitors" and the National Festival of Polish Song in Opole in concert Superjedynki. In October 2015, she released her debut studio album Inspination. One of the singles from the album, "Addiction", qualified to Krajowe Eliminacje 2016, Poland's national final for the Eurovision Song Contest 2016. In the final, which took place on 5 March 2016, the song received 3.39% of the vote, and placed sixth. In February 2017, she released "Flashlight", which will be included on her second studio album. The song qualified to Poland's national final for the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 and won.

FLASHLIGHT

It’s like s flashlight burning in our eyes You call the dogs off, I got them hypnotized You never catch us, take us by suprise Running faster at the speed of light Falling deeper got you in a sight Bringing down your eyes in the sky

Kasia Moś kasiamos.pl

ÂŠ Photo: Dominika Cuda

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

12 MOLDOVA Songwriter Anton Ragoza, Serghei Ialovitki Seghei Stepanov, Alina Galetcaia Mihail Cebotarenco

Participant

Song

SUNSTROKE PROJECT

HEY MAMMA

The SunStroke Project is a musical trio composed of Sergei Yalovitsky, Anton Ragoza and Sergey Stepanov. They are known for representing Moldova in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2010, with ‘’Run Away’’.

Hey, hey you You will never hide what you think of me I see your clue Know, you worry, but it don`t meant to be Hey, hey you It`s your girl and maybe should sleep at home But i`ll steal her alone. And i say... Mama, mama, don`t be so down I am not that unfounded boy Mama, mama don`t be so down All it keeps going round and round Mama, mama, don`t be so mad If you knew me, you`d be surprised Mama, mama, don`t be so mad She`ll be back home till sunrise.

Anton Ragoza is the violinist and primary musical composer for the band. Previously he has conducted the orchestra of Chişinău, Moldavia, and won a series of prestigious awards in the field of classical music. Anton has a wide experience in performing in bands which play in the modern electronic genre. Sergey Stepanov is the saxophonist and Sergei Yalovitskiy is the vocalist of the band. On February 25, 2017, SunStroke Project was selected to represent their country once more in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017.

Like the sun in the sea She will disappear tonight with me. And I will not anymore Do what other guys did before. Hey, hey you It`s your girl and maybe should sleep at home But i`ll steal her alone.

HEY MAMMA

And i say... Mama, mama, don`t be so down I am not that unfounded boy Mama, mama don`t be so down All it keeps going round and round Mama, mama, don`t be so mad If you knew me, you`d be surprised Mama, mama, don`t be so mad She`ll be back home till sunrise.

Sunstroke Project sunstrokeproject.net

Â© Photo: TRM (2x)

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

13 ICELAND Songwriter

Svala Bjorgvinsdottir Einar Egilsson, Lily Elise, Lester Mendez PAPER You’re under the water trying to pull me under I reach for you - I reach for you You can throw it all at me I won’t give you up I can handle all your pain take it as it comes I love you right but you make me feel like Paper - you cut right through I’m stuck like glue to you Paper- your darkness pulls I lose control again Drawing every bit of my truth color me in with your blue Paper - you cut right through a thousand words for you I know I wasn’t a part of your plan I know you think that you’re being a man tell me to leave you alone tell me I would be so better off but you don’t understand

Participant

Song

SVALA

PAPER

Svala (full name: Svala Björgvinsdóttir) is the daughter of Icelandic singer Björgvin Halldórsson. She started singing and recording at a very early age. Her first recording was produced when she was 7 years old, when she sang backup on one of her father's albums. She had her first number one hit in Iceland when she was 9 years old, when she sang a Christmas duet with her father called "Fyrir Jól". Her second number one hit came out when she was 11 years old, with another Christmas hit called "Ég hlakka svo til". She would also be known for more Christmas songs that became hits in Iceland. When Svala was 16 years old she formed the band Scope which was very influenced by UK house and disco. 2 years later she started writing and recording with the Scottish producer Ian Morrow. In 1999, Svala signed a six-album deal with EMI and Priority Records in North America – one of the biggest deals ever made with an Icelandic recording artist. Her debut album The Real Me were not only platinum sellers in Iceland but also well received in several European countries. After her second album The Bird Of Freedom she became a member of the band Steedlord in 2006. After recovering from an car accident in 2008 Steed Lord joined Chromeo on their US tour. Svala and Steed Lord moved to Los Angeles in the summer of 2009, and since moving to the US, Steed Lord has achieved more success in the US market. On 11 March 2017, Svala won the Icelandic national selection as an solo artist with the song “Paper” and therefore will represent Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017.

I can’t leave you, baby I can’t leave you But you make me feel like

PAPER

Paper - you cut right through I’m stuck like glue to you Paper - your darkness pulls I lose control again Drawing every bit of my truth color me in with your blue Paper - you cut right through a thousand words for you Paper - you cut right through I’m stuck like glue to you Paper - your darkness pulls I lose control again Drawing every bit of my truth color me in with your blue Paper - you cut right through a thousand words for you

Svala Svalakali

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

14 CZECH REPUBLIC Songwriter

Participant

Song

DWB / Kyler Niko

MARTINA BARTA

MY TURN

Martina Bárta is a Czech jazz singer and musician. A vocalist and a player of the French horn since her childhood, she studied jazz at the Jazz Institut Universität der Künste in Berlin. Together with Marcus Gartschock she then formed the duo Scotch and Soda. She was a member of the Frankfurt Jazz Band 4 and now lives in Prague again. She was part of the Frankfurt am Main-based jazz band 4 to the bar. She also had a role in the musical Robin Hood and worked with the Felix Slováček Big Band and Karel Gott.

From the very very first time I saw you You were my home, you were home, you were my home, Now that you are falling, let me be your calling, be your one prayer, keep away the bad things In this moment let me give to you what you’ve given to me, that’s the least I can do

She performs regularly with various musical projects, has appeared at many jazz festivals, and has collaborated with renowned global musical leaders, all while also working on her own project, Scotch and Soda. Martina Bárta represent the Czech Republic with the song “My Turn“ in the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest.

Baby it’s you Every time I close my eyes It’s always been you Heaven knows that I’ll be waiting always by your side Baby it’s you Every time that I was down You were there to fix me up You were there to pick me up Now it’s my turn From the billion hearts to choose between Oh I was your choice, I was your choice, so let me be your salvation and joy

MY TURN

You know that I love it when you call, just to say hello, oh oh Will you let me hear it, once more

Martina Bárta official martinabarta.com

30 | 31

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

15 CYPRUS Songwriter

Participant

Song

THOMAS G:SON

HOVIG

GRAVITY

GRAVITY No matter where you’re going No matter where you’ll be Wherever the wind is blowing Let me be your gravity I can be your hero I can be your fantasy, oh I can be the cure, oh Let me be your remedy Right beside you I’ll never leave you Let me be your heart and your company I’ll let you be the one who can lean on me I’ll catch you when you fall, when you’re fallin’ free Let me be, be your gravity Let me be your wings when you’re flying high I’m gonna raise you up ’til you touch the sky I’ll catch you when you fall, when you’re fallin’ free Let me be, be your gravity

Hovig (full name: Hovig Demirjian) studied marketing and worked in business, but quickly gave up in order to become a singer. He learned to play the guitar and piano and also studied jazz and vocals. His first major achievement was placing second in a musical competition in Larnaca. He became well known in Cyprus with the nickname "The Music Messenger". In June 1, 2009, he released "Den mou milas alithina (Istoria exei teleiwsei)" (in Greek "Δεν μού μιλάς - ἱστορία έχει τελειώσει") under the mononym Hovig accompanied by a music video in preparation for the Greek X Factor. The song was written by Argiro Christodoulidou and music video directed by Kostas Voniatis. After taking part in the second season of The X Factor Greece, he returned to Cyprus developing a solo music career. He released a number of singles including the Greek-language songs "Ksana" (in Greek Ξανά) in 2010 and "Ekho ya mena" (in Greek "Εγω Για Μένα") in 2013. He also toured internationally performing in various concerts in Greece, the Middle East and Russia. Following The X Factor Greece, Demirjian competed to represent Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest on two occasions; 2010 and 2015. In 2010, he placed third with "Goodbye", and in 2015, he placed fourth with "Stone in a River“. On 21 October 2016, Demirjian was announced as the Cypriot entrant in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017. His song “Gravity” is written by Swedish composer Thomas G:son.

Attached inseparably, like gravity As high as the highest mountain As low as the deepest sea or Wherever you settle down Just let me be you gravity

GRAVITY

Attached inseparably It’s all we’ll ever be You - me - gravity

Hovig hovig-music.com

Â© Photo: Leica Camera Cyprus Team

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

16 ARMENIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Lilith Navasaryan Levon Navasardyan David Tserunyan

ARTSVIK

FLY WITH ME

Artsvik (full name: Artsvik Harutyunyan) is an Armenian singer and songwriter, who became a contestant on season two of Golos, the Russian version of “The Voice” in 2013. While on the show, she was a member of Team Pelageya. Artsvik was eliminated in the battle rounds.

Wanna tell a story, About a girl with history. Take it from my heart it’s gonna be your beat, Take it from my soul it’s gonna be your heat. Many colors and shades, So many voices to embrace, All around.

In 2016 Artsvik was announced as a participant in Depi Evratesil, the Armenian national selection to find their entrant in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017. During her time on the show, she was a member of Essaï Altounian's team. She was announced the winner on 24 December 2016, and will represent Armenia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song "Fly With Me“.

Many stories and tales, She took it all into her space, Hear the sound. Heee Over deeps over hills, She casts her wings and now it feels, Love is one. Flying high she became, A sun who’s love and light’s the same, For everyone. Fly with me high oh high, with me high oh high, Never stop believing that love will take us high. Fly with me high oh high, with me high oh high, Never gonna stop believing that love's for you and I.

FLY WITH ME

Love, love is one Fly with me high oh high, with me high oh high, Never stop believing that love will take us high. Fly with me high oh high, with me high oh high, Never gonna stop believing that love's for you and I. .

Artsvik artsvik.com

Â© Photo: AMPTV, Damian Photography

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

17 SLOVENIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Omar Naber

OMAR NABER

ON MY WAY

Omar Naber, a Slovenian singer and songwriter, was born in Ljubljana, Slovenia. His father was from Jordan, while his mother is Slovenian. Omar Naber won Bitka talentov, the Slovenian version of the Battle of the talents, and participated in the Eurovision Song Contest 2005 with "Stop" (in Slovene), a song he had composed himself.

You've all been very kind, but I made up my mind. Now I'm about to leave you all behind. I'm feeling so alone. I'm turning down my tone. Before the rise of sun I will be gone. On my way. I'm never coming back. And I'll pray I'm never gonna crack. World is calling out tonight, telling me I'll be alright. Lights will guide you through the night. Still hiding in my shell and keeping to myself. I cannot count on anybody else. I'm burning deep inside. I'm giving up the fight. Before the break of dawn I will be gone. On my way. I'm never coming back. And I'll pray I'm never gonna crack. World is calling out tonight, telling me I'll be alright.

His album Omar was released in 2005. He spent 2006 touring Slovenia, as well as internationally, and eventually went back to the studio to record his second album with his band Kareem. This second album, also named Kareem, was released in 2007. He entered the Slovenian selection for the Eurovision Song Contest four more times, not proceeding to the main contest: in 2009 with "I Still Carry On", in 2011 with "Bistvo skrito je očem", in 2014 with "I Won't Give Up" and in 2017 with "On My Way". In 2016, he entered the Swiss selection for the 2016 contest with the song, "Take Me Far". His album Na glavo was released in 2014, along with its English version No Helmet. This year he won the latest national selection and became the Slovenian representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song “On My Way“.

ON MY WAY

Omar Naber omarnaber.com

36 | 37

SEMI FINAL 1

May 9, 2017

18 LATVIA Songwriter

Agnese Rakovska Kristaps Ērglis Kristians Rakovskis LINE I’m going round in circles And the door’s wide open Cause boy I still want to see you Days go by, I’m still hoping Where we draw the line? Tell me babe, Where we draw the line?

You told me to move on Search for love and somebody else But babe tell me how will I find it If all I see is you, all I see is you

Participant

Song

TRIANA PARK

LINE

Triana Park is a Latvian pop-rock band formed in 2008. The band was founded in 2008 by Agnese Rakovska, who is also the leader of the band. She is backed up by Arturs Strautins (guitar), Edgars Vilums (drums) and Kristaps Erglis (bass). To date they've released two records; their debut, EnterTainment, in 2010 and an EP, Triana Park, in 2014. They are usually distin-guished by their unique appearance, especially frontwoman Agnese Rakovska. They have attempted to represent their country at Eurovision on multiple occasions: in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. They won the 2017 series of Supernova and will represent Latvia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv with the song “Line” finally making it on their fifth attempt.

All I see is you, all I see, All I see is you… Where we draw the line? Tell me babe, where we draw the line? My heart breaks to see you, Days go by, I’m still hoping…

LINE

Triana Park trianapark.com

“ Hi … my name is Alan, despite living in Sydney - Australia, all my life I have been a huge fan of the Eurovision Song Contest , watching it every year and collecting the 45 T records. It was always difficult to follow the contest locally and I had to wait till 2013 and Malmoe to experience my first ESC live and since then I have been DJaying at the Euro Village, Euro Club and Euro Café, very much looking forward to be back in Kyiv. My passion as a DJ help me to produce some remixes of Eurovision songs. The first Eurovision I watched on TV was 1961. It was a very special moment because my mother who loved Eurovision allowed to stay up to watch it with her way after my bed time. The Eurovision Song Contest 1961 was the sixth Eurovision Song Contest. It was held on 18 March 1961 and was the first to take place on a Saturday night, a tradition that has continued into modern times. It was hosted in the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès located in Cannes, France, where it had been staged two years previously. Luxembourg won for its first time with the song "Nous les amoureux" performed in French by Jean-Claude Pascal. As the contest overran its allocated time, and the show was being broadcast live, the winning song's reprise was not shown in the UK. On the evening of the Eurovision contest in Cannes, and in a result reminiscent of previous years, Italy was only placed 5th with "Al Di La" sung by Betty Curtis, which went on to become the With Dami Im - Australian ESC 2016 entrant biggest-selling song of the 1961 Eurovision, becoming a hit in the United States for both Connie Francis and Emilio Pericoli whose version reached Number 6 on the US Hot 100. Two years later, it reached 24 on the same chart when recorded by the Ray Charles Singers, and also charted in versions by Al Martino and Ace Cannon. The song was written by Carlo Donida, who later penned "I (Who Have Nothing)", a hit for Shirley Bassey Ben E King and Tom Jones. The Allisons were an English pop duo consisting of: Bob Day and John Alford. They were marketed as being brothers, using the surname of Allison. They represented the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest 1961 with the song "Are You Sure?". They came second, the third consecutive second place Eurovision finish for the UK for whom two subsequent Eurovision entrants would also be second-place finishers before "Puppet on a String" by Sandie Shaw would give the UK its first Eurovision victory at Eurovision 1967. The song was released as a single on the Fontana Records label, and climbed to number 1 on the UK charts. "Are You Sure“ sold over one million records, in Germany the single renamed "Goodbye, Farewell ! (Are You Sure)" reached top 10. Despite a couple of minor follow-up hits, the duo disbanded in 1963. ‘Are You Sure‘ - klick to watch the video ►

NUMBERS As of 2016 Fifty-two countries have participated in the Eurovision Song Contest since it started in 1956. Of these, twenty-five have won the contest. Several countries geographically outside the boundaries of Europe have competed: Israel, Cyprus and Armenia, in Western Asia, since 1973, 1981 and 2006 respectively; Morocco, in North Africa, in the 1980 competition alone; and Australia making a debut in the 2015 contest. In addition, several transcontinental countries with only part of their territory in Europe have competed: Turkey, since 1975; Russia, since 1994; Georgia, since 2007; and Azerbaijan, which made its first appearance in the 2008 edition. Two of the countries that have previously sought to enter the competition, Lebanon and Tunisia, in Western Asia and North Africa respectively, are also outside of Europe. The Gulf state of Qatar, in Western Asia, announced in 2009 its interest in joining the contest in time for the 2011 edition. However, this did not materialize, and there are no known plans for a future Qatari entry the Eurovision Song Contest. Australia, where the contest has been broadcast since the 1970s, debuted as a participant in the 2015 edition, with another entry in 2016. The Czech Republic, Cyprus, and Serbia returned for 2015 contest and Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia and Ukraine returned in 2016 Some countries, such as Germany, The Netherlands and the United Kingdom, have entered on all but a handful of occasions; Morocco, on the other hand, has only entered once. Two countries, Tunisia and Lebanon, have attempted to enter the contest but withdrew before making a dĂŠbut. Liechtenstein, a country without an eligible television service, tried unsuccessfully to enter in 1976.

My Eurovision 2016 Postcard The number of countries participating each year has grown steadily, from seven in 1956 to over twenty in the late 1980s. A record 43 countries participated in 2008 and 2011 and again in 2017.

Ireland holds the record for the highest number of wins, having won the contest seven times - including four times in five years in 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1996. Under the current voting system, the highest scoring winner is Jamala of Ukraine who won the 2016 contest in Stockholm, Sweden with 534 points. Under the previous system, in place from 1975 to 2015, the highest scoring winner is Alexander Rybak of Norway with 387 points in 2009. Tunisia was to perform fourth in the 1977 Eurovision Song Contest's running order. The reason for the country's withdrawal was never officially established; rumors suggest ERTT did not want to compete with Israel. To date, the only African nation to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest is Morocco, who made just one appearance, in the 1980 contest. On 18 June 2007, the public Tunisian television broadcaster confirmed that due to a governmental request they will not participate in the contest.

I WISH THEY WOULD WIN Portugal has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest 48 times since its debut in the 1964 contest. Since then it has missed five contests, 1970, 2000, 2002, 2013 and 2016. Portugal has yet to win the contest and holds the record for most appearances in the contest without a win. In fact, the country has yet to reach the top five of any contest, with their best result being a sixth-place finish for Lúcia Moniz with the song "O meu coração não tem cor" in 1996. In 1974, when Paulo de Carvalho sang "E depois do adeus" it gained national notability for being one of the two musical signals to begin the Carnation Revolution against the Estado Novo regime regime of Marcelo Caetano - the other being the folk song "Grândola Vila Morena" by Zeca Afonso, which was the signal for the coup leaders to announce that they had taken control of strategic parts of the country. It was broadcast at 22.55 on 24 April 1974 by 'Emissores Associados de Lisboa'.

FACTS Along with Switzerland's win in the first contest, Serbia is the only other country to win with its debut entry (in 2007). Under the voting system used between 1975 and 2015, the winner of the contest was decided by the final voting nation on eleven occasions. The United Kingdom has finished second fifteen times at Eurovision (most recently in 1998), more than any other country. The most successful country never to have won the Contest is Malta, having finished second in 2002 and 2005 and third in 1992 and 1998. There is no official runner-up for two of the contests – 1956 and 1969. In 1956 only the winner, Switzerland, was announced, whilst there were speculative reports that Germany ended up in second place with "Im Wartesaal zum großen Glück" by Walter Andreas Schwarz, on account that Germany was chosen to host the 1957 contest. In 1969 four songs shared first place by achieving the same number of points, and the second best result was achieved by Switzerland, who is not considered an official runner-up, because of the draw for first place.

GERMANY Leon is a German singer, best known for his participation in the 1996 Eurovision Song Contest, when he was controversially eliminated at the pre-selection stage. He had taken part in the 1996 German Eurovision selection with the song "Planet of Blue", which had gained a comprehensive victory in a public televote. It was a very contemporary, techno-influenced song which had been expected to do well in the contest. The 1996 Eurovision Song Contest took place in Oslo. Hosts Norway were given an automatic place in the contest, but as 29 other countries were chasing the 22 remaining places, it was decided to hold an audio-only pre-qualifier

on March 29 where a jury from each country would listen to all the songs and vote in the normal ESC manner, with the bottom seven songs being eliminated. To universal surprise, "Planet of Blue" finished 24th in the voting, and failed to qualify for the contest. Germany, Israel, Denmark, Hungary, Russia, Macedonia, and Romania missed out The unexpected result caused consternation in Germany and left the European Broadcasting Union facing the situation where its largest contributor at the time had to miss the contest. To avoid a re-occurrence in future years, the EBU introduced the controversial "Big Four" rule whereby Germany, along with France, Spain and the United Kingdom as the largest contributors, would be guaranteed a place in the Eurovision final each year. Undeterred by disappointment, Leon returned to the German Eurovision selection in 1997 with "Schein (meine kleine Taschenlampe)", which finished second. Since 2000, France, Germany, Spain and United Kingdom have automatically qualified for the final, regardless of their positions on the scoreboard in previous contests, as they are the four biggest financial contributors to the EBU. These countries became known as the "Big Four". On 31 December 2010, it was announced that Italy would compete in the Eurovision Song Contest after a fourteen-year absence and that it would also automatically qualify for the final, joining the other four qualifiers to become the "Big Five", considered by some to be a controversial decision. German singer Leon Germany became the first and, as of 2016, the only "Big Five" country to win the contest since the rule was made in 2000, when Lena Meyer-Landrut won the 2010 Contest. Turkey withdrew from the 2013 Contest with the status of the "Big Five" being one of the reasons cited. They also did not participate in the following 3 years' of contests (2014–16) for similar reasons, as well as stating their opposition to the 50/50 jury and televoting system that began being applied in Final at the 2009 Contest. "Viel zu weit" ("Much too far") was the German entry in the Eurovision Song Contest 1993, performed in German by Münchener Freiheit. They have released seventeen albums by 2007, six of which have gone gold and have sold over five million copies in Europe. They are named after a square in the city of Munich in Germany, meaning "Munich liberty". It is considered part of the Neue Deutsche Welle musical movement even though - apart from their first two albums “Umsteiger “ and “Licht” they have very little in common with Nena, Hubert Kah, Trio, Frl Menke, Spliff …..all bands I really like Disappointingly “Viel zu weit” only finished 18th. The song is a ballad, with the singer describing "untouched worlds" and comparing them to the problems of our own. Münchener Freiheit also recorded the song in English (as "Far Away"), French ("Très loin") and Spanish ("Un sueño nada más"). They had their breakthrough in Germany and neighbouring countries with the singles "Ohne dich (schlaf' ich heut' nacht nicht ein)" and "Tausendmal du" in 1986 and went on to have a series of Top 20 hits. Internationally they are best known for their 1988 recording "Keeping the Dream Alive" with the London Symphony Orchestra, a #14 hit in the UK in December of that year. The band released three English language albums, Romancing in the Dark, Fantasy and Love is No Science - then under the group moniker Freiheit. Münchener Freiheit continue to record and tour, celebrating their 35th anniversary Stefan Zauner left the band in 2012 to pursue producing the solo-album “Zeitgefühl“ and an album together with his wife Petra Manuela “Mensch ärgere Dich nicht”, which was released in 2016. Tim Wilhelm replaced Zauner as a singer in the band.

AUSTRALIA The Eurovision 2017 Australian contestant is the 2016 X Factor winner Isaiah Firebrace. The theme of Eurovision this year is ‘Celebrate Diversity’ and Australia will be represented by an indigenous singer The 17-year-old aboriginal with the distinctive baritone voice from Moama in NSW, is heading to Kyiv as the Australian entrant for Eurovision Australia's after previous Eurovision entrants Dami Im (the 2013 X Factor winner) and Guy Sebastian and Jessica Mauboy's performance at the 2014 contest. Isaiah auditioned for the eighth season of The X Factor Australia, singing a cover of Adele's "Hello”. He made it through to Boot camp where he performed a cover of Alicia Keys' "If I Ain't Got You", he made it through to the live shows. He reached the Grand Final after making it through the live shows. The Grand Final took place on 21 November 2016, he performed Beyoncé's "Halo", Avicii's "Wake Me Up" with Jessica Mauboy. Isaiah also performed his winners single "It's Gotta Be You", winning the contest. He took the X Factor crown in the eighth season of Isaiah Firebrace the talent show last November, on his 17th birthday, after being mentored by Adam Lambert. He became the first indigenous winner of a reality show since Casey Donovan won Australian Idol. Isaiah’s Eurovision song “Don’t Come Easy” is an emotive ballad showcasing his vocal range and unique ability to connect with powerful lyrics, which, in this track, speak to fighting for your dreams even when it isn’t easy. It was written for Isaiah by DNA Songs duo David Musumeci and Anthony Egizii, the same team who wrote Dami Im’s Eurovision hit “Sound of Silence”, which won the Marcel Bezençon Composers Award for the best original composition at last year’s Eurovision Song Contest. Isaiah already scored a measure of popularity in Europe with “It's Gotta Be You” which went platinum in Sweden and charted in Denmark and Norway, and has hit 50 million streams of Spotify worldwide. And he won't be the only Australian to compete in this year's Eurovision, with another reality talent show veteran, the 2014 The Voice winner Anja Nissen representing Denmark with the song “Where I am “. Anja, whose parents are Danish, is competing after winning the nation's contest to find a Eurovision candidate.

WOMAN IN THE ESC Women have dominated the contest since its inception, either performing solo or as a member of a group on 50 of the 64 winning entries as of 2016. 1966 is an important year in our celebration of Women at Eurovision. This was the year that the first black female singer entered the Eurovision Song Contest. Milly Scott (real name: Marion Henriette Louise Molly) represented The Netherlands that year. Milly was an extremely successful Jazz singer with her own television show in The Netherlands – “Scott in de Roos”. As a result, in 1966, she was given the chance to take part in the Dutch Eurovision selection, where her song "Fernando en Filippo" was a clear winner. Milly went forward to the 11th Eurovision Song Contest, held in Luxembourg City on 5 March, and placed 15th out of 18 songs receiving points from Ireland and the United Kingdom. Milly has spoken out about some of the racist comments that were made towards her at the time but that would not deter her from taking to the Eurovision stage. Female empowerment at it’s best.

Milly Scott Photo by Eric Koch / Anefo - Nationaal Archief

Now we cannot mention the 1985 contest without talking about the presenter for the night – Lill Lindfors – who to this day is regarded as one of the best presenters the contest has ever had along with Katie Boyle from the UK. Lill had a wonderful sense of humor throughout the show and this one scene is classed as a Eurovision Gem and it isn’t even a song. Yes it was the ► Eurovision wardrobe malfunction For it’s time was so risqué and still to this day is shown on many TV compilation shows. You get the feeling that Lill came up with the idea of doing it herself. I can still remember the yelp at the tv while looking at the contest with my parents – totally unexpected. Lill Lindfors

For our next celebration we turn to 1998 for 2 completely different reasons. You cannot mention 1998 and not talk of Dana International. Born Yaron Cohen she had released eight albums and three additional compilation albums, positioning herself as one of Israel’s most successful musical acts ever. Born male, Dana discovered that she was transsexual at an early age, coming out when she was 13 and undergoing sex reassignment surgery in 1993. For this reason she had received both positive and threatening reactions from parts of Israeli society. Despite death threats she was determined to represent her beloved Israel at Eurovision in 1998 in Birmingham. The media attention that descended on her was unseen at Eurovision for many a year. In one of the closest Eurovision voting sequences ever, Dana emerged triumphant and went on to have a European hit with her song “Diva”. She did use her winning of the contest to highlight transsexual issues across Europe in her media interviews. For this we salute you Dana International.

Dana International

Turkey had been an overlooked country at the ESC and had only appeared in the Top 3 once in 1997. However that was all to change in 2003 when Sertab Erener came to Eurovision in Latvia. Sertab was and is a huge star in Turkey, but nothing could prepare her for what was going to happen in 2003 with her entry ”Everyway that I can”, that she co-wrote. In a voting section that had the lead change hands between Russia, Belgium and Turkey it came down to the very last jury of Slovenia to decide the winner. Winning the contest brought Eurovision to Turkey for the very first time which was a social and cultural achievement for the country. Many have seen the contest that took place in Istanbul the following year as one of the best in the contest’s history for the hospitality and production values of the show. Again it took a woman to win the contest for the country.

Apart from having the second highest winning score in the contest’s history and one of the biggest commercial successes in the contest for over 2 decades with “Euphoria”- Loreen has to be commended for her stance that she took on human rights during the run up to the Eurovision final in Baku. This could have been seen as competition suicide and Reuters actually questioned her on it after her semi final qualification at the winners press conference. However Loreen has never shied away from her political stances and also has redefined the potential success of Eurovision participation. She has teamed up with the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan, where she is particularly interested in children’s education and went to Afghanistan This year she tried again with her song “Statements” at Melodifestivalen 2017 , but failed to succeed.

Loreen

Where to start writing about Conchita Wurst ? Goodness, what a presence and influence she has had both at Eurovision and beyond. I wrote this after Conchita was on her way home to Vienna from Australia having just sold out the Sydney Opera House for her headline show with the Sydney Symphonic Orchestra, now not every-one can say they’ve done that! And she was one of the shows at Sydney Mardi Gras 2016 - see ► video It’s now almost three years since the beautiful, strong, powerhouse stepped on to that huge stage in Copenhagen and won not only the contest but the hearts of many around the world, mine included. I cannot now imagine a world without her, nor do I want to. Conchita Wurst

GEOGRAPHICAL NAMES IN ESC-SONGS

(click the tv screens to watch the videos)

En gång i Stockholm

Les jardins de Monaco

Nur in der Wiener Luft

Monica Zetterlund 1963

Caline & Oliver 1978

Eleonore Schwarz 1962

Amsterdam

I treni di Tozeur

Las Vegas

Maggie MacNeal 1980

Alice & Franco Battiato 1984

Martin Stenmark 2005

Somewhere in Europe

San Francisco

Heute in Jerusalem

Liam Reilly 1990

Tor Endresen 1997

Christina Simon 1979

Venedig im Regen

Waterloo

Colorado

Thomas Forstner 1991

ABBA 1974

Xandra 1979

Reise nach Jerusalem

EuropĂŠennes

Fra Mols til Skagen

SĂźrpriz 1999

Cocktail Chic 1986

Aud Wilken 1995

Some of the best ESC moments for me have been: ► Warming up the crowd for ORF (the Austrian TV) on the main stage in front of Vienna Townhall 1 hour before the semi final in 2015 ► Playing my remix of ABBA Dancing queen on the main square in Stockholm ► Creating my podcasts after the show and here below is my 2016 one …

Stockholm‘s Memories 2016 ESC 2016 songs mixed by

DJ Alan T just click the play symbol

ESC 2016

The Life & Times of Corry Brokken

Breda, * 03 December 1932

Laren NH, † 31 May 2016

Singer Corry Brokken, was a woman of many talents. Not only was she a celebrated singer, who represented the Netherlands three times in the Eurovision Song Contest which she won in 1957 with the song “Net als toen” (Just Like Then), moreover her second career as a lawyer was remarkable. She became a respected judge of the court in Den Bosch. And after her retirement she experienced something very rare: A comeback as an versatile artist. But life was not always a bed of roses for her. She suffered a difficult childhood, because her father was a member of the National Socialist Movement which sympathized with the German Nazis during the second world war. After the war was over he was put in prison, but it became evident that the whole family was denounced as traitors by the neighborhood. The relationship with her father, who was an alcoholic and sometimes had beaten her mother, was always very complicated. Despite the

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difficult conditions in which they grew up, the young Corry appeared to have a strong will. At 18 years of age she performed in the radio program “Een Lied en Een Vleugel” of the AVRO (“Algemene Vereniging Radio Omroep” or in English "General Association of Radio Broadcasting"), and the response from the critics and the audience was overwhelming: A star was born ….

Corry Brokken singing „Net as toen“ during the Eurovision Song Contest 1957

In the summer of 1954 Corry was invited to sing with the orchestra of John Kristel, which marked the beginning of a musical connection that lasted nearly two years. This orchestra was an ensemble that had many appearances in major hotels and restaurants with constantly "filled“ beautiful dance floors. The orchestra played all kinds of dance music and the audience liked that very much. A winter tour brought her to a series of concerts in Basel/Switzerland, where Corry met the young Dutch drummer Cees See, whom she married in 1956, and who accidentally lived in the same hotel as Corry. Anyway, he was responsible for opening her heart and her ears to a world of a “modern vocal” style. Soon her favorite singers were Ann Shelton and Jo Stafford from abroad and Conny Stuart and Sonja Oosterman from her own country. Corry left the orchestra of John Kristel to specialize in radio work and started taking singing and piano lessons, which resulted in a contract with the Belgian record company "Ronnex“. Apart from other numbers she recorded "Begin The Beguine" for the Ronnex label, accompanied by the orchestra of Willy Rockin with trumpeter Eddy Meenk. On 24 April 1956, the Dutch television invited Corry Brokken to the first “Nationaal” Song festival and the host Karin Kraaykamp announced her alongside Jetty Paerl and Bert Visser. Just like them she was able to present three songs: Her "Ik zei: ja“ received 478 postcards, which resulted in place 5, for “`t is lente“ voted 1.210 people, which meant place 3. Her most successful song, however, was "Voorgoed voorbij“ (Forever Gone), which received the most points with 1.854 submissions. Therefore Corry Brokken had the chance to travel to Lugano a month later to represent the kingdom together with the other winner - Jetty Paerl -, but she didn’t win in that year. The result of the vote remained secret in that year, only the winner – Lys Assia with her song “Refrain” - was announced. A year later, again four performers were invited to the national contest on February 3, each of which presented two songs. Corry was the only singer who performed for the second time and, among others, John de Mol was a competitor . With her two songs "Ivan" with 4.692 postcard announcements and "Net as toen" (Just Like Then) with 6.927 approvals, she declassed the other participants with a healthy margin.

This time she was the only artist representing the Netherlands during the international Grand Prix and was the sixth performer among the ten competitors. At the end, 31 points were visible on the display board. All other countries had at least one point left for Corry Brokken and the first of a total of four victories during 6 0 years of Eurovision Song Contest had been won by the Netherlands. On 12 March 1958 it was the duty of Dutch television to organize the third international competition. One month before, on the 11th of February, the representative artist had to be found during the national decision show. In addition to Bruce Low and Willy Alberti the previous year's winner Corry Brokken also was sharing the stage with two titles. And in 1958 she was able to convince the audience with both songs by far. "Weet je“ became second with 4.036 postcards and "Heel de wereld" (Heal The World) finished as the winning song with respectable 8.148 votes. So, for the time being, the world seems to be her oyster again. Video : Corry Brokken singing „Net as toen“ - ESC 1957

In Hilversum Corry had to face the international competition during an Eurovision Song Contest for the third time. Including the winner of 1956, Lys Assia, whom she met for the third time. But this time only Switzerland was able to be inspired by the song. In the end Corry received only this one single point from the small country in the alps that she often toured before. Luxembourg received only one point too, which resulted in the ninth and last place for both countries. Therefore, up to this day in 2017 Corry Brokken is the only ESC winner, who has also placed last. Video : Corry Brokken singing „Heel de wereld“ - ESC 1958

fourth time in the Dutch National final, which took place at the AVRO TV studios in Hilversum, hosted by Karin Kraaykamp. This year eight songs and seven singers were involved, with all songs presented twice by different performers, once with a full orchestra and once in a more pared-down style. She performed „Kleine zilv’ren ster“ with a small combo, but the song failed to impress the audience. In addition to that, her second song “Iedere dag met jou“, accompanied by a big orchestra, only reached the sixth place. At least the song "Mijn hart en ik", which she performed as a duo with Bruce Low in an orchestral version, took the 3rd place. But that wasn't enough. In the end Corry failed in her bid to represent the Netherlands for a fourth consecutive year. After her Eurovision experiences Corry decided to pull herself back.

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But this didn’t prevent Corry from trying it again. In 1959 Corry Brokken participated for the

With her first husband , drummer Cornelis „Cees“ See

But the year 1959 had other highlights for Corry in store. Her first longplayer “Corry’s bed-time story”, released in late 1958, became a big hit . During the break that followed the Dutch National final, Corry became pregnant with daughter Nancy, who was born on September 1st. While expecting her child she recorded the dutch version of “Milord” originally sung in French by Édith Piaf. With a total of 16 weeks at the top of the Netherlands singles during 1960 chart it became her most successful song. The lyrics of “Milord” (about a prostitute) became an offensive experience for some in the then conservative Netherlands. In early 1960 theater producer René Sleeswijk signed up Corry Brokken as the 'leading lady' in the Snip & Snap Revue. Cees, her husband, advised her off (Mops, this is not for you), but it seemed that she was fed up with instructive remarks and she said yes. So she starred in the 1960-1961 season of the Snip & Snap Revue “Het staat in de sterren”. But she struggled wearing fishnet stockings and fake shiny jewelry. At the same time her marriage broke up and the divorce followed. She moved to Laren together with her daughter Nancy, while building up a relationship with René Sleeswijk, who was still married at that time. "In retrospect, I think he was kind of father that I missed in my childhood,” Corry admitted later. When he had directed his wife to Spain, Corry and her daughter moved to him. She became pregnant twice from Sleeswijk, now also her manager. She had to end both pregnancies by abortion, according to her she was forced by Sleeswijk to do so. After "Milord" Corry scored two more big hits with Dutch interpretations of songs by Charles Aznavour, "Mijn Ideaal" (1962) and "La Mamma" (1964). Her popularity led to a contract with the AVRO in 1965 resulting in the TV shows "Een avondje uit met Corry Brokken" (A night out with Corry Brokken). Meanwhile she also became known to the German public with German recordings of “Milord” and “La Mamma”, among others. In 1966 she was even asked to participate on behalf of Germany at the Eurovision Song Contest, but she refused to represent Germany. Nevertheless between 1967 and 1971 she presented the German TV show "Variety-Zauber“ as a host, with guests such as Charles Aznavour, Gilbert Bécaud, Caterina Valente and Hildegard Knef. Despite working for German TV she was not very happy. In 1969, the Dutch newspaper Het Parool published an interview with Corry, in which she spoke negatively about her work in Germany. After a Cologne boulevard newspaper had reported about the incident and published some of her statements, which resulted in a scandal. Despite angry reactions from the German TV audience, the “Variety-Zauber“ team and the producer of the show gave Corry their encouragement. But the interest of the audience dropped, mainly because other music styles were preferred on TV. The times had changed, as did the musical taste. So in late 1970, the last edition of her ARD show was broadcasted. Despite this setback Corry was still very popular as a singer in her home country. After her record contract with Phonogram ended, Corry Brokken released two Dutch albums with Polydor, "Corry Brokken zingt kleine During a Performance in 1962

kleine cantates" (1967) and "Wereldsuccessen, met de complimenten van Corry" (1968). In 1971 EMI released her album "Voor Nancy", produced by Willem Duys, and in 1973 her provisional latest album, "Corry zingt Toon" with songs from Toon Hermans.

In 1973 Corry decided to study rights. Before that she had to pass a qualifying examination Her husband René Sleeswijk, whom she married in 1968, thought that was crazy idea born in a frustrated mood. “For him I had to look beautiful and to make the stars fall down from heaven with my singing,” she said later in an interview with the Groene Amsterdammer (4-2-1998). “That I was going to study, had to do with my marriage to a much older man, who not only looked after my affairs, but also dominated me in a terrible way.“ While she had hopped for a new start, a large family, homely, familiar things, she could not stand his nagging and the way she had to function at any given time. “Suddenly I thought: I‘m not willing to take anymore humiliation, I will go to college! I chose law, because as ‘silly singer’ I was not supposed to interest me for the business aspects of my profession. “ But the legal side interested her indeed. So she went to the college in Utrecht and asked if at her age - she was already 42 - and with only secondary school graduation she could still start a law degree. Only a year later she passed grandiose for all subjects. Her husband still thought she would return to the “normal” mode after the colloquium. She made it clear, that she was going to study at first. “I believe he hasn’t spoken to me for at least ten days. Because he loved me as the singer, but not as his wife Corry.” Their marriage was becoming worse. In 1975 she started to study law in Utrecht. She met the seventeen years younger student Jan Meijerink and left René Sleeswijk. They were divorced in 1976. She left all the luxury and security behind and together with her daughter she moved to a small flat in Utrecht in 1977, where Jan Meijerink took up residence soon. A week after their marriage (1978) René Sleeswijk died, according to the tabloids of a broken heart, but the real reason for his dead was pancreatic cancer. But going to college was not easy for her, because everyone seemed to ask ‘What is a popular singer doing here?’. In addition to that, people from tabloid magazines begun to haunt her. They went so far that they even offered fellow students money to find out how she studied and if she did get along with the others. Luckily she studied fantastic and within 5 years

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she was ready. Corry and her new husband wanted to start a law practice together. They had arranged a curriculum previously which offered the broadest basis for their plan. She graduated in criminal and family law, he in civil rights. After six years of legal practice, she moved to the judiciary. She began working as a deputy clerk at the district court in 's-Hertogenbosch, then as court prosecutor and finally deputy judge for life in 1990. “I think I had a talent for it. I had no fear to sit for a full house behind the table and to face those people”, she said in an interview. “"Meanwhile, I was doing nothing with music, I never went to the theater. Not only because I was too busy, but also because it used to hurt me too much. The more firmly as I sat in the saddle as a judge, the more it began to itch inside.” Slowly she dared to take something back. Just as singing with Robert Long, a famous singer songwriter in the 70’s of last century. Or talking to jazz singers Rita Reys and Dutch jazz pianist Willem Bernard „Pim“ Jacobs. In shows of Karin Bloemen and Mathilde Santing. And then, suddenly in late 1992, her daughter Nancy became seriously ill. Life-threatening sepsis, with 42 degrees fever. It was the hell for the whole family, but especially for Corry, who always wanted to have everything in live under control. Her daughter’s own two children we very young and always by her side – a total shocking situation for all. In the end Nancy was saved, but at the expense of loosing both her lower legs. “She had to learn to walk on prosthetics, learning to talk, learning to live”, Corry later said in an interview. “But she succeeded. Therefore I am very proud of her.” A year later Corry was able to work again, but with a greater sense of what is important in life and a growing nostalgia for music. And then it was her daughter Nancy who convinced her to release a double album © Jacques Klok / APN of Corry’s earlier repertoire. They were Corry Brokken as court deputy in Den Bosch – December 1981 both so surprised by the quality of the old tapes, that Corry considered: Why should I really not start singing again? Anyway, after a longer period of discussing the possibilities in a sometimes very emotional way, she confronted her husband Jan with that idea. It came as a total surprise to him, because had never known anything other than that Corry hated everything that had to do with show business. But for him it was all that mattered that Corry felt happy. “I thought he was right, I only live once, I take the leap: I'm going back to my roots”, Corry admitted later in an interview with DE GROENE AMSTERDAMMER (04.02.1998). The double CD "Net als toen", a summary of her early work as a singer, was released in 1994 and became a big seller after her 20 year long break. In addition to that she won an Edison, the prestigious Dutch music award, for her comeback album in 1995. The press gained new interest in her and things began to roll. She presented the awarding of the Gouden Harp (Golden harp) and started working on a new album again. “My voice was still good. I even got more range“, Corry said in the interview with DE GROENE AMSTERDAMMER. “Then I'm gone to the president of the court and told him that I had decided to sing again after careful consideration, because I could not live

without music and theater.” She got a nice farewell reception with gifts and flowers, and was gone. Corry Brokken was back in her old business, but despite the “promotional circus”, as she called it, her new album “Nooit Gedacht” failed to become the expected success. Therefore she started working on two circuits: As a trainee and presenter in seminars and conferences and – besides that – she sang and started acting in theaters, among others in the play "De Vagina Monologues“.

Corry Brokken performing – ca. 1997

In 2000 her memoirs were published “Wat mij betreft” (Concerning me) and became a great success. 2006 saw the release of a DVD with highlights from her past television shows: “Een avondje uit met Corry Brokken” (A night out with Corry Brokken). In that year she was a regular guest celebrity at the show theater Purper 100.. She had to be replaced in the second series by Anneke Grönloh after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Corry broken suffered a stroke in early 2008, from which she had to recover long-term. In 2009 “Toegift” (Encore), her second biography was published, in which Chunks tells how she has fared after 2000. In recent years Corry Brokken had retired and lived in a nursing home, where she died on June 2nd, 2016.

“ Ik hou van het leven en ik hoop maar dat het leven nog een tijdje ook van mij zal blijven houden ...” I love life and hope that life will still love me for a while … / Corry Brokken in “Toegift”

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SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

01 SERBIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Borislav Milanov, Joacim Persson Lisa Desmond, Johan Alkenaes

TIJANA BOGICEVIC

IN TOO DEEP

Tijana Bogićević has been expressing talent for music since her childhood, later signing up as her way of life. At the beginning of her professional music career is considered the year 2001 and introduction to the Vlado Georgiev, when access to his bandas backing vocals.

In Too Deep Wish that I knew where I lost Right where there’s was no going back The line was crossed But I love what you’re doing to me How you spin me around High off the ground I’m not coming down Won’t somebody save me tonight Feels like I’ve been sentenced to life I’m falling so deep - I’m in too deep I’m falling so deep No escape, in over my head Struck by every word that you said I’m falling so deep - I’m in too deep I’m falling so deep

Since her breakthrough with “Tražim” in 2010, Tijana has participated in several TV talent shows. Other songs that have received a lot of attention are Tijana's duets with the band Flamingosi and Aleksa Jelić, as well as the touching ballad “Čudo” (Miracle), composed and produced by Dušan Alagić. She has just finished recording an album with the same producer and it is expected to be released in autumn. In 2011 Tijana participated in the Eurovision Song Contest as a backing vocalist representing Serbia with Nina and the song Čaroban (Magical), an experience that she considers invaluable. It was her great wish to participate in the contest again and in May her wish will come true when she takes to the stage in Kyiv.

Love doesn’t seem to make sense You just broke into my heart Got no defence And you just spin me around High off the ground - I’m not coming down Won’t somebody save me tonight Feels like I’ve been sentenced to life I’m falling so deep - I’m in too deep I’m falling so deep No escape, in over my head Struck by every word that you said I’m falling so deep - I’m in too deep I’m falling so deep Ohohoho Ohohooo Ohooooo I’m falling so deep

IN TOO DEEP

I’m in lightning speed and I cant slow down My heart is racing - when you’re around Gonna fly so high till I hit the ground Hit the ground Won’t somebody save me tonight Feels like I’ve been sentenced to life I’m falling so deep -I’m in too deep I’m falling so deep No escape, in over my head Struck by every word that you said I’m falling so deep - I’m in too deep I’m falling so deep Ohohoho Ohohooo SO DEEP Ohooooo

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Tijana Bogićević

ÂŠ Photo: Andreja Damjanovic

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

Songwriter

Participant

Song

Nathan Trent Bernhard Penzias

NATHAN TRENT

RUNNIN ON AIR

RUNNING ON AIR

Nathan Trent (real name: Nathanaele Koll) released his debut single "Like It Is” on 18 June 2016. On 19 December 2016 he was announced as the Austrian representative in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017. His song, "Running on Air", was released on 28 February 2017.

It’s been a long time running, ’Cause I had some things to see I had to meet some people Who were there to believe in me I’m taking all that struggle, Reminds me what I’m fighting for I’m living it up, I ain’t gonna stop ’Till I make that final score And I’ll keep running - As fast as I can I’ll keep running I won’t stop, I won’t stop, no, no

At the time of his selection as the Austrian entrant, Nathan Trent was one of the 33 artists that had been shortlisted in Unser Song 2017, the contest to select the German entrant in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017. He was automatically eliminated, as a performer can not represent more than one country in the same year by European Broadcasting Union regulations.

Hey now! If you push me down, I’ll get up again Hey now! If you let me drown, I’ll swim like a champion, I’m sure, There’ll be good times, there’ll be bad times, But I don't care, ’cause I’m running on air Running, running, yeah… Give me a million reasons, But my answer stays the same You can try to put me in a box, But I’m doing it my own damn way See, I can't stand them talkers All pretending that their live’s a mess, ’Cause whatever you want, whatever you need, You gotta get off your … And I’ll keep running as fast as I can I’ll keep running, I won’t stop, I won’t stop

RUNNING ON AIR

Hey now! If you push me down, I’ll get up again Hey now! If you let me drown, I’ll swim like a champion, I’m sure, There’ll be good times, there’ll be bad times But I don't care, ’cause I’m running on air Hey, I’m running on air, Running, running on air Running, running, now I don’t care Hey now, If you push me down, I’ll get up again Hey now, hey now… Yeah -You can push me, push me down! Hey now, but I’ll get up again I’m sure, There’ll be good times, there’ll be bad times, But I don't care ’Cause I’m running on air

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Nathan Trent nathantrent.com

Â© Photo: Roman Zach-Kiesling ORF

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

03 RUSSIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Leonid Gutkin Netta Nimrodi Arie Burshtein

JULIA SAMOYLOVA

FLAME IS BURNING

Julia Samoylova (full name: Yuliya Olegovna Samoylova) began losing function of her legs due to spinal muscular atrophy and has used a wheelchair since childhood.

Day and night and all I do is dreaming Pacing, thinking, staring at the ceiling I wish I had the answers I wish I had the courage to know Everybody’s talking ‘bout the reasons And all I wanna do is find that feeling I wanna feel the power I wanna go to places I don’t know

She started her career performing for oil workers at a restaurant in her hometown Ukhta. In 2013, Samoylova was the runner-up of season three of Faktor A, the Russian version of The X Factor. The following year she also took part in the opening ceremony of the 2014 Winter Paralympics. Julia Samoylova was chosen on 12 March 2017 to represent Russia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 held in the capital of Ukraine Kyiv, with the song "Flame Is Burning“.

(Chorus) If there is a light Then we have to keep dreaming If there is a heart Then we must keep believing inside Oh oh oh After the night There is a light And in the darkest time our flame is burning It shines so bright Deep in the night Love is the light And in the dark our flame is burning Our flame is burning All my life been searching for the meaning But now I know that seeing is believing I wish I knew what life is I wish I had the courage to grow

FLAME IS BURNING

(Chorus) An open window For love And let the wind blow Into the hearts That were never apart Then you’ll know (Chorus)

Julia Samoylova jsvok.ru

ÂŠ Photo: Channel 1 Russia

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

04 F.Y.R.MACEDONIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Joacim Perrson, Alex Omar Bobi-Leon Milanov Florence A.

JANA BURCESKA

DANCE ALONE

Jana Burčeska started her musical career as she began singing in elementary school but kicked off when she participated in the first (and so far only) season of Macedonian Idol, aired in 2011. She finished fifth. Later that year she went on being a UNICEF ambassador in a national campaign towards schools without violence. Another memorable accomplishment in Jana’s career in 2011 was receiving the Golden Ladybug Award for Newcomer of the Year, an award that is considered the most valuable in Macedonia. In 2014 Jana performed with the Macedonian Philharmonic Orchestra during the Days of Macedonian Music. Jana debuted in Skopje Fest, back in 2012 with the song "Bi bila tvoja" and immediately caught the attention of the public with her refined and sensitive stage performance and vocals.

Take out my hair, wash off my make up It’s gonna be a one man show I got a feel good infatuation And I’m the only one who knows I will dance alone Wherever I am The rhythm follows I will dance alone I'm lost in the sound Of no tomorrow I let the pavement be my catwalk Oh bring the fire on, feel the heat And all I need to keep on movin’ Is the sound of my heartbeat I will dance alone Wherever I am The rhythm follows I will dance alone I'm lost in the sound Of no tomorrow I let it go I, I I let it go wild I let it go I, I I let it go wild I will dance alone Wherever I am The rhythm follows

She continued taking part in the contest in 2013 and 2015, but the years she participated in one of the country's biggest musical events, however, were not electing the Eurovision entry. The point in her career where she believes she grew the most as a musician is when she started to actively perform live gigs with the band OffBeatz. OffBeatz started off in 2015 and since then the band has done live shows in various bars in Macedonia’s capital. The band is known to play funk, disco, soul, neo soul hits and sometimes even rap. This year the Macedonian broadcaster MRT has announced that Jana Burčeska was selected internally to represent the country in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song “Dance Alone”,

DANCE ALONE

Take me to places that I’ve never been Show me the faces that I’ve never seen I will dance alone Wherever I am The rhythm follows I will dance alone Im lost in the sound Of no tomorrow I let it go I, I I let it go wild I let it go I, I I let it go wild I be dancin’ on my own Wishin’ you could hold me close…

Jana Burčeska janaburcheska.mk

ÂŠ Photo: Dimitar Petrovski & Andrijana Kostova Petrovska

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

05 MALTA Songwriter

Philip Vella Sean Vella Gerard James Borg BREATHLESSLY I walk the street Leaving footprints in your heart My feet are worn But they can handle the cold I know the game, I take the blame I wave my white flag unashamed So here I am, right at your door Catching my breath before the storm Breathlessly I’ll be watching you breathlessly Knowing there’s a vacancy within your heart Breathlessly I’ll be holding you endlessly Knowing that the storm is just about to die Climbing over walls that always felt too high Breathlessly

Participant

Song

CLAUDIA FANIELLO

BREATHLESSLY

Claudia Faniello has been discovered when entering the national finals of the Malta Eurovision Song Contest back in 2006, which has seen her in every final till this very day. This contest has played a significant role in her career and has helped to put her name forward. Serving as an inspiration to many she has always been amongst the favourites in the competition and loved by the public. The Malta Eurovision Song Contest has given her a lot of exposure and the opportunity to travel a lot and perform in different international events. Convincingly Better s the name of her debut album which was launched in 2010. This was a different sound from what she was mostly known for, shedding a light on her real self. The album features pop/rock tracks including her single “I hate this song”. In the The GO Malta Eurosong 2011 final Claudia Faniello ended in ninth place with her entry "Movie in my Mind". In the The GO Malta Eurosong 2012 final she reached second place with her entry "Pure“. This year Ckaudia Faniello will represent Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 after winning the national final with the song "Breathlessly“.

I’m stepping out Yet I feel I’m locked inside I’ve got the will, I learned the skill Of a true acrobat for love Breathlessly I’ll be watching you breathlessly Knowing there’s a vacancy within your heart Breathlessly I’ll be holding you endlessly Knowing that the storm is just about to die Climbing over walls that always felt too high Breathlessly

BREATHLESSLY

Claudia Faniello claudiafaniello.com

ÂŠ Photo: Kris Micallef

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

06 ROMANIA Songwriter

Participant

Mihai Alexandru Alexa Niculae

ILINCA ft. ALEX FLOREA YODEL IT!

YODEL IT! You never show the spark that makes you glow You always run away, you always say no to the right things Don´t try to hide.. the light.. inside of you Today might be the day when you will make it baby So bring it on, bring it on, I'm a dreamer If you don´t believe it, come and see me I will teach you If you never try , you'll never be alive You are gonna miss out on this ride

Song

Ilinca (full name: Maria Ilinca Băcilă) participated in the season 4 of Vocea Romaniei, for the second season of Românii au talentand for the third season of X Factor with Trupa Quattro. She is well-known for her unique yodel. Alex Florea (full name: Alexandru Ionuț Florea) is a Romanian singer who participated in the fifth season of The Voice of Romania in 2015 as a member of Marius Moga's team and made it all the way to the semifinal. Ilinca ft. Alex Florea will represent Romania at the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest in Kyiv with the song “Yodel It!”.

(Chorus) Yodeleeii - Sing it up, sing it baby Yodeleio - Gonna act really crazy Yodeleeii - Sing it so I can hear ya Yodeleio- Just shout it baby Yodeleeii- Wanna hear this now Yodeleio - Gonna act really crazy Yodeleeii - Shout it out, sing it back yeah Yodeleio Now what´s the use of being so confuzed Of doing all this work you really don´t want to be doing But you´ll be fine, it´s time to feel alive Don´t stop from reaching for the stars and keep on moving Bridge: So bring it on, bring it on, I'm a dreamer If you don´t believe it, come and see me, I will teach ya If you never try , you'll never be alive You are gonna miss out on this ride! (Chorus)

YODEL IT!

Sitting alone at my desk on a 9 to 5 program, It just won't do Get another coffee, get another one to make it through Don't want this anymoooooore Don´t you hide that light inside of you Come and show me what you wanna do If you're stuck in a place feeling incomplete If you wanna run feeling like a misfit Come on sing along Come on sing this song Say 1 , 2 , 3, SAY

Ilinca The Artist

(Chorus)

Alex Florea Official

68 | 69

Â© Photo: Andreea Zamfirescu

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

07 THE NETHERLANDS Songwriter

Rick Vol Rory de Kyivit LIGHTS AND SHADOWS Cry no more, cry no more Though the hallway catches light it won’t reach the corner where you strongly fight (Here in the shadow) At this place they know the game outside the world will turn and feel the same (There in the sunlight) But you are so much more to me than the one who carries all the burden I can only hope, once you fly, you’ll be free you should never (Chorus) Cry, no more, feeling all alone and insecure you have been going through these stages now it’s time to turn the pages We’re gonna stand in line and not give up but walk that road that everybody goes through lights and shadows Every time the candle glows it lightens up the space but no one knows (Will there be a dark side?) Every battle’s victory is a double feeling when you cannot be (Here in the spotlight) Cause you are so much more to me than the one who lifts us on your shoulders I can only hope, once you fly, you’ll be free you should never (Chorus)

Participant

Song

O’G3NE

LIGHTS AND SHADOWS

O'G3NE is a girl band consisting of three very talented sisters Lisa, Amy and Shelley. O =the blood of their mother, G3NE = the genes hat bind them together. In 2007 they won Junior Songfestival 2007 with their self-written song "Adem in, Adem Uit", earning a maximum score of 36 points in the semi-final and final. They went on to represent the Netherlands at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2007 in Rotterdam, where they placed eleventh out of seventeen.The following year, they released an album titled “300%” and later released another album titled “Sweet 16” in 2011. After a brief hiatus they made history in 2014 when they became the first group to win the competition on any international version of “The Voice”. In early 2015 they received a gold record for their single “Magic” from the hands of Robert ten Brink. In 2016 they competed in the Dutch musical television show ‘De beste zangers van Nederland’. They released their third studio album “We Got This” on 30 September 2016. It peaked at number-one on the Dutch albums chart. After much speculation it was revealed on 29 October 2016 that O'G3NE would be representing the Netherlands at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv.

LIGHTS AND SHADOWS

We’re gonna stand in line and not give up but walk that road that everybody goes through lights and shadows On a scale of one to ten you got the biggest score you’re heaven sent no one will doubt that you’re an angel So what went wrong this time hurt nobody, did no crime what’s with the universe, why you? (Chorus) We’re gonna stand in line and not give up but walk that road that everybody goes through lights and shadows

O'G3NE og3ne.com

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

08 HUNGARY Songwriter

Participant

Song

József Pápai

JOCI PAPAI

ORIGO

Joci Pápai (real name: József Pápai) came into contact with music early because his older brother had started playing guitar at the age of four, writing songs. He was influenced by music of the 1960s and 1970s, and rock, pop, soul, and R&B music.

Time for you to close your eyes To see me clear without disguise For you to have my heart in all You have to get to know my soul If you don’t need me let me go I was meant to be a John Doe Suffering’s a thing I know But the Lord is mindful of his own

(Chorus) Jálomá lommá, jálomá lommá Jálomá lommá lomalom Jálomá lommá, jálomá nédinná Jálomá lommá, lomálom Why didn’t you let me know My skin’s color will stop the show My eyes are brown, you knew it well They’ll never change as I can tell You fill me up right to the brim But we’re overflown so leave me be Go away and shut the door You’ll be damned forevermore

His public debut was in 2005, when he was a part of the second season of the TV2 show Megasztár, where he was eliminated in the consolation rounds, and interviewed by the Budapest tabloid daily Blikk. Afterwards, he started to move towards his debut. His first big success was Ne nézz így rám. In 2006, he collaborated with rapper Majka with Nélküled and Nekem ez jár, but his greatest success came in 2015 with Mikor a test örexik. He then released a song in collaboration with Caramel and Zével Szabo titled Elrejtett világ. His last collaboration with Majka appeared together with the pop-funk song Senki más. On 8 December 2016, it was announced that Pápai would be one of the thirty acts participating in the 2017 edition of A Dal, the national selection for Hungary in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the self-penned "Origo“,in which he progressed to the final and won the competition, giving him the right to represent Hungary in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017.

(Chorus) At the age of 4 God talked to me And armed well to set me free With this weapon I couldn’t stop to exercise It grew to be my part like the sword for the Samurai I can trust it, he’s a friend I know Will show me the truth and a way to follow It’s covenant that stays with me forever It can’t be forsaken now or never The child’s blessed with mysterious powers They are all afraid, I can tell, the doubters My strings attack and the bodies cry There’s no defence, it’s like venom and it’s set to fire That’s spreading ‘round and through the masses You hear the tunes, you know I got this! A million scars and endless road near and far Tears of thousands streaming down my guitar (Chorus)

ORIGO

Pápai Joci Rajongói

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

09 DENMARK Songwriter

Participant

Song

Anja Nissen Michael D'Arcy Angel Tupai

ANJA

WHERE I AM

Shortly after Anja (full name: Anja Nissen) took out the competition on the 2014 cycle of The Voice, Anja knuckled down with a star-studded posse of rappers and producers in a Los Angeles studio to create fresh sounds all of her own. At the invitation of pop-music wave-maker will.i.am, her mentor on The Voice, Anja flew to L.A. to write and record with a team that included chart-topping singer Cody Wise, and The Black Eyed Peas rapper apl.de.ap. Only months after becoming a household name in Australia for her awe-inspiring R&B performances, Anja gave fans a taste of what she had been cooking up. That taste came in the form of I’m So Excited, a crisp track that sets it sights on summer dance floors. Featuring will.i.am and Cody Wise, the song finds Anja’s honeyed and powerful voice soaring over cool, elastic beats. It’s an instant party jam. Anja’s second single, “Anyone Who Had A Heart”, reached #11 on the iTunes chart and enjoyed a national sync with Channel 9 hit TV drama, Love Child. It showcases Anja’s effortless, powerhouse vocals and belies her twenty years of age. Shortly after came Triumph, the inspiring, uplifting pop track which was accompanied by an artistic, somewhat controversial, music video.

You're lost in my game But your love is repeating Always around, you're never holding me down I know who you are True colours are showing Though my heart's bare Always show you care Putting up my walls so that I last better Don’t know why I do it because we’re together Always holding back from you its on my mind Tonight I’m gonna try for you real harder Show you all the love I’ve held inside Show you all the love I’ve held inside Lets do it right Tonight I’m gonna show you Show you what you’ve done I’m laying down my armour Laying down my gun Tonight I’m gonna hold you Closer than before So you know where I am So you know where I am I’ve known its not right Just couldn’t reveal it Always closing up tight And never releasing Afraid and I fear to love But you never let me go I've held it in my heart But now I’m letting you know Tonight I’m gonna show you Show you what you’ve done I’m laying down my armour Laying down my gun Tonight I’m gonna hold you Closer than before So you know where I am So you know where I am

During the last year she had been in Denmark, recording with some of the industry’s most revered producers. On 10 January 2016, Nissen was confirmed to be taking part in the Dansk Melodi Grand Prix 2016, Denmark's national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2016, with the song "Never Alone". The song was written by Danish Eurovision winner Emmelie de Forest, producer Rune Westberg, and American singer and songwriter MoZella. She ended up placing second in the final with 36% of the final vote, behind winners Lighthouse X. This year, she returned to the Dansk Melodi Grand Prix with the song "Where I Am", which was written by Nissen herself, along with Angel Tupai and Michael D'Arcy and won!

WHERE I AM

Putting up my walls so that I last better I Don’t know why I do it because where together Tonight I’m gonna try for you real harder Show you all the love I’ve held inside Show you all the love I’ve held inside Lets do it right Tonight I’m gonna show you Show you what you’ve done I’m laying down my armour Laying down my gun Tonight I’m gonna hold you Closer than before So you know where I am (repeat 5x)

Anja Nissen anjanissenofficial.com.au

74 | 75

Â© Photo: DR

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

10 IRELAND Songwriter

Participant

Song

Jörgen Elofsson James Newman

BRENDAN MURRAY

DYING TO TRY

Brendan Murray became a member of the Irish boyband Hometown, managed by Louis Walsh. The band achieved three chart successes in their home country, including the number one singles "Where I Belong" in 2014, and "Cry for Help" in 2015. Their debut album, HomeTown, was released in November 2015 and peaked at number four in Ireland.In December 2016, the band announced that they'd be going on an indefinite hiatus.

Take a leap, Of faith with me, If you believe, Honestly, That I am yours, And you are mine, I know you're scared, And so am I.

On 16 December 2016, Brendan Murray was announced as the Irish representative in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017. His song, “Dying To Try”, was released on 10 March 2017.

Cos I know that love can be so strong And yet so frail, And there ain't no guarantee that You and me won't fail, But I'm dying to try. I'm dying to try. I'll keep you safe in my arms Build a bridge to your heart Everyday. I'll give you it all, But I'm not going to lie. Cos no one can promise That love will ever learn how to fly, Will ever learn how to fly Oh but I'm dying to try I'm dying to try (I'm dying to try (No one can promise that love will ever learn how to fly) Yeah I'm dying to try I'm dying to try I'll keep you safe in my arms Build a bridge to your heart Everyday I'll give you it all, But I'm not going to lie. O cos no one can promise That love will ever learn how to fly O cos no one can promise That love will ever learn how to fly. But I'm dying to try Take a leap, If you believe.

DYING TO TRY

Brendan Murray - Music

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

11 SAN MARINO Songwriter

Participant

Song

Ralph Siegel Jutta Staudenmayer Steven Barnacle

VALENTINA MONETTA & JIMMIE WILSON

SPIRIT OF THE NIGHT

Valentina Monetta is a singer from San Marino who competed for her country for the first ime at the Eurovision Song Contest in Baku with the song “The Social Network Song (OH OH – Uh - OH OH)” in 2012.

Him: Hey, are you the one I dream about Her: Baby I am Him: I really feel the night - Can take away my doubt Her: I’ll try and do what I can Him: Every time I see you smile – There is sadness in your eyes Her: well I’ve been hurt before Him: I know it’s nothing new - and time will make you realize Her: We always wish for more Both: we find we’re searching high and low and always looking for the right time Chorus : Together we can make it through the night Both: It’s the spirit of the night - Spirit of the night Burning like St. Elmo’s fire - Spirit of the night Takes our feelings so much higher Her: It’s the spirit of the night we can live our fantasy Both: Spirit of the night - Burning in our ecstasy Him: Hey, are you the one to take my pain Her: just take my hand Him: I’ve been so hurt before - It’s hard to trust again Choir: Trust again Her: you know I understand Him: You’ve got me feeling right - and I can see the future is bright Her: I’ll take your blues away Both: So no more searching high and low and always looking for the right time Choir: right time (Chorus)

In 2013 she took part again in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, Sweden with ”Crisalide” and became unlucky 11th in the Semifinal. So San Marino RTV asked Valentina and her producer Ralph Siegel, who agreed to take part one more time at th e ESC 2014 with the song “Maybe” (Forse). After a two-year break Valentina Monetta will this year join forces with American singer and musical theatre actor Jimmie Wilson in representing San Marino in Kyiv with the song „Spirit Of The Night“. Jimmie Wilson studied acting in Hollywood, and then acted in the musical “Sisterella”, produced by Michael Jackson. He later moved to Germany to play Barack Obama in the musical “Hope! – Das Obama Musical”. In 2012 he took part in the third series of the Polish version of “Must Be the Music”.

SPIRIT OF THE NIGHT

It’s the spirit of the night it’s a feeling – got me reeling We can live our fantasy it’s the spirit of the night It’s a feeling, just a feeling, burning in our ecstasy Time to celebrate our love – We’re caught in it’s ray of light Calling to the world out loud just let our spirits fly Spirits fly We can write another page a golden age within our lifetime It’s the spirit of the night - Spirit of the night It’s the spirit of the night - night night night The spirit - of the night -takes our feelings so much higher and higher It’s the Spirit of the night - Spirit of the night Burning in our ecstasy - Spirit of the night Spirit of the night - We can live our fantasy

Jimmie Wilson

Valentina Monetta

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

12 Croatia Songwriter Jacques Houdek, Siniša Reljić Tony Malm, Arjana Kunštek Ines Prajo, Fabrizio Laucella

Participant

Song

JACQUES HOUDEK

MY FRIEND

Jacques Houdek (real name: Željko Houdek) performed his first solo concert on February 19, 2000 in Zagreb’s club SAX!, singing covers of various songs. His first single, the song "Čarolija" (Magic), was released in 2002 and performed by Houdek at the Dora pop festival, Croatia's national competition for entry to the Eurovision Song Contest. There he was noticed by maestro Zdravko Šljivac who offered him a collaboration and publicly praised him by saying that a singer such as Houdek is born once every 300 years. The next month, Houdek signed an exclusive contract with Croatia Records, the leading music publisher in the region, with whom he has produced 13 albums.

There's a miracle my friend And it happens every day. Hold out your hand, Don't let it slip away! Io so che esiste, Guarda meglio su, Ritorna ogni giorno, Promettendo sempre più. After the rain, Nasce il sole! I pray you'll see the light and find your way. La forza del destino che è in te.

During the campaign for 2007 parliamentary election, Jacques Houdek sang party anthem "HDZ zna" (HDZ knows) for the conservative Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) which was at the time ran by Ivo Sanader. He later also sang for the mayoral campaign of the populist Milan Bandić. Houdek sayed in an interview for Jutarnji list that he is apolitical and that those were just professional engagements as any other.

Do your best, take a chance! Dare to dream and make it real! Segui la verità Via della libertà!

In January 2011, Houdek placed 4th in the finals of the Open Mic UK singing contest held in London's O2 Arena. He also participated in the British TV show X Factor, where he was given the nickname "Croatian Sensation" and entered the top 100 candidates. He was unable to continue his participation in the contest because he did not receive a work permit in time.

My friend, My friend.

In February 2017, Houdek was selected to represent Croatia at the Eurovision Song Contest in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Don't let go, Let it flow! Credi nel miracolo!

MY FRIEND

For the miracle That I'm talking of Is the life that we're given. La vita vincerà!

Jacques Houdek jacqueshoudek.com

80 | 81

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

13 NORWAY Songwriter

Participant

Song

Joakim With Stehen Jonas McDonnell

JOWST

GRAB THE MOMENT

JOWST (real name: Joakim With Steen) is a Norwegian musician, DJ, record producer and songwriter. He was born in Trondheim and raised in Tiller. At age 14, his family moved to Steinkjer.

They read me like a book that is open, While punching on a bag and I’m choking. I'm Looking for a sign, while they’re stepping on my Mind, but I hide behind a simpleminded notion. I try act cool, but I’m boiling, Feeling like a fool, that was chosen. Try to keep myself calm, while my head is getting Bombed, really need to get that good vibe going. So when it’s all or nothing, I put my nerves in the coffin. So when it’s all or nothing, I put my nerves in the coffin.

He went on to study music production at Noroff Vocational School, and began working as a sound engineer in 2011. JOWST and Norwegian singer Aleksander Walmann were confirmed to be taking part in Melodi Grand Prix 2017, Norway's national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2017, on 7 February 2017. In the final, held on 11 March, JOWST and Walmann received the maximum 12 points from four of the eleven international juries in addition to winning the televote. They subsequently advanced to the gold final, where they won the competition. They will now represent Norway in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017.

I’m gonna kill that voice in my head, I don’t care if I’m falling, I’m gonna grab the moment. I’m gonna kill that voice in my head, I don’t care if I’m falling, I’m gonna grab the moment. Getting kinda heavy on my shoulders, Try to stand straight, but I’m boneless. Gotta pocket full of prose, while I’m walking on my Toes, and I’m coping with a map that is roadless. Got eyes in my neck, but I’m absent, Quiet in a corner seeking action. I wanna be bold, but I’m only getting old, I need to stop drowning in distractions. So when it’s all or nothing, Better get that good vibe buzzing. So when it’s all or nothing, I get that good vibe buzzing.

GRAB THE MOMENT

I’m gonna kill that voice in my head, I don’t care if I’m falling, I’m gonna grab the moment. I’m gonna kill that voice in my head, I don’t care if I’m falling, I’m gonna grab the moment. Deep, in that beat, There’s a calling for that leap. Got no con--trol, but I know, there’s a fire in my soul. Hidden deep, in that beat, there’s a calling for that leap. Got no con--trol, but I know, there’s a fire in my soul. I’m gonna kill that voice in my head, I don’t care if I’m falling, I’m gonna grab the moment. I’m gonna kill that voice in my head, I don’t care if I’m falling, I’m gonna grab the moment.

JOWST jowstmusic.com

ÂŠ Photo: Julia Marie Naglestad / NRK

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

14 SWITZERLAND Songwriter

Elias Näslin Alessandra Günthardt Nicolas Günthard APOLLO Like a bullet in my chest You're written, bound and etched Forever in my mind We are fading in our hands Lost somewhere in wasteland Not knowing up from down But when the walls are caving in The world keeps turning We got the love We got to love (Chorus) No I will never let you go All the walls won't make me fold It is never easy I follow you Apollo No I will never let you go Give it time and we will grow Ain't no fun in easy I follow you Apollo I follow you Apollo

Participant

Song

TIMEBELLE

APOLLO

Timebelle is a Swiss band from Bern, currently consisting of lead vocalist Miruna Mănescu, drummer Samuel Forster, and multi-instrumentalist Emanuel Daniel Andriescu. Past members include accordionist Rade Mijatović, guitarist Christoph Siegrist, and bassist Sándor Török. The band was formed as a five-member boyband while its members were students at the University of Bern. Shortly after, Miruna Mănescu was added to the group as a lead singer by their Romanian producer Mihai Alexandru. The name of the band is derived from the Zytglogge which is one of the main sights of Bern. Timebelle previously attempted to represent Switzerland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2015 with the song "Singing About Love", but placed second in the Swiss national final. But this year the band will represent Switzerland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song "Apollo“.

I wear my heart on my sleeve You do the same for me When autumn comes around So when the walls are caving in The world keeps turning We got the love We got to love

APOLLO

(Chorus) So don't pull the rug from underneath us We're in trouble but we got the love Don't pull the rug from underneath us Crashing down fast, as fragile as glass But what are we now If we never tried? What are we now? I will never let you go Give it time and we will grow It is not supposed to be easy (Chorus)

Timebelle Timebelle.org

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

15 BELARUS Songwriter

Participant

Song

Artem Lukyanenka

NAVIBAND

HISTORYJA MAJHO ZYCCIA

NAVIBAND (also called Navi) are a Belarusian indie pop duo. The duo was formed in 2013 by Arciom Lukjanienka (vocals, guitar) and Ksienija Žuk (vocals, keyboards). Instudio members also include Uladzislaŭ Čaščavik (bass), Aliaksandr Taboĺski (production), and Uladzimir Biehier (drums). All of their songs are performed in the Belarusian language.

Колькі дзён, колькі спатканняў Новыя вобразы і гарады Шэраг падзей нас пакідае У сэрцы трымаем, ідзем далей Гісторыя майго жыцця Будзе свяціць яшчэ ярчэй У нашай крыві сонца зайграе Уся прыгажосць тваіх вачэй Дзе будзеш ты, я адшукаю Яркія моманты знойдзем хутчэй Сённяшні дзень стане пачаткам Новых жаданняў, лепшых ідэй

The first work group was the song "Abdymi myane", which was released in the summer of 2013. In 2014, they released their first album, Soncam sahretyja. In 2016, NAVI was announced as a participant in the Belarusian selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 with the song "Heta ziamla". They ended up placing fourth in the national final. The following year, they returned with the song "Historyja majho žyccia" and won. They will now represent Belarus in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017, with the song "Historyja majho žyccia".

Гісторыя майго жыцця Будзе свяціць яшчэ ярчэй У нашай крыві сонца зайграе Уся прыгажосць тваіх вачэй

How many days, how many love dates New images and towns The chain of events is falling behind us We keep it in our hearts and walk on The story of my life Will shine even brighter The sun will sparkle in our blood And all the beauty of your eyes

HISTORYJA MAJHO ZYCCIA

I'll seek you out wherever you may be We'll discover the bright moments quicker Today will give birth To new desires and better ideas The story of my life Will shine even brighter The sun will sparkle in our blood And all the beauty of your eyes

Naviband - Belarus

86 | 87

Â© Photo: BTRC

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

16 Bulgaria Songwriter Borislav Milanov , Alex Omar Sebastian Arman, Joacim Persson Alexander V. Blay

Participant

Song

KRISTIAN KOSTOV

BEAUTIFUL MESS

Kristian Kostov who was born in Moscow to a Bulgarian father and Kazakhstani mother, participed in the Russian version of The Voice, Golos in 2014. He was part of the first season of the kids version of the show where his mentor was Dima Bilan and Kostov got to the finals.

When the world shakes us trying to take us out of line Fear of tomorrow feelings we borrow for a time Water so deep - how do we breathe how do we climb? So we stay in this mess this beautiful mess tonight And we don't have a thing to lose no matter what they say or do I don't want nothing more our love is untouchable Even in the line of fire when everything is on the wire Even up against the wall our love is untouchable

After his success in Russia, Kristian decided during his visit to Bulgaria to audition for X Factor Bulgaria as he is of Bulgarian origin. He made it to the final of the show after he was on elimination with the group A.V.A. but was chosen by the judges to go to the final. On the final of season 4 he performed solo the Lyube's song "Позови меня" and made a duet with Vasil Naydenov performing the song "Сбогом, Моя Любов". For the final song he chose Emil Dimitrov's song "Ако си Дал", but he finished in seсond place as Christiana Louizu won the show. On 7 October 2016 his debut single "Ne si za men" was released by Virginia Records. The song was writen by Venci Venc' and music and arrangement by Ray Hedges, Nigel Butler and Isaac Evans. On 13 March 2017 it was announced that he will represent Bulgaria in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017, with the song "Beautiful Mess".

Our love is untouchable! When the colours turn grey and the lights all fade to black again Water so deep - how do we breathe how do we climb? So we stay in this mess this beautiful mess tonight 'Cause we don't have a thing to lose no matter what they say or do I don't want nothing more our love is untouchable

BEAUTIFUL MESS

Even in the line of fire when everything is on the wire Even up against the wall our love is untouchable Oooo Ooooo Oooo No! Even in the line of fire when everything is on the wire Even up against the wall our love is untouchable Our love is untouchable!

88 | 89

Kristian Kostov Kristian Kostov on VK

ÂŠ Photo: Diliana Florentin / Virginia Records

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

17 LITHUANIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Denis Zujev Viktoria Ivanovskaja Michail Levin

FUSEDMARC

RAIN OF REVOLUTION

Fusedmarc is a Lithuanian electronic band from Vilnius formed in 2004. The band consists of lead vocalist Viktorija Ivanovskaja, multi-instrumentalist Denisas Zujevas, and visual designer Stasys Ĺ˝akas, who is also responsible for music- & video production. In 2005 they were called the Breakthrough of the Lithuanian Alternative scene, in 2007 Fusedmarc was acclaimed as the Best Experimental music band, and 2008 brought them the award in the Best Lithuanian Electronic Band category. Today the band has developed its own style and is certainly an indicator for new music creators.

Life like roller coaster Spinning me around Breathing getting faster When i'm upside down Changes striking through me With a speed of sound There's no need in green light Nothing stops me now Making a start making a start making a start And let the light shine through me Figuring out meaning of love Breaking the rational views and narrow limits Now i'm getting closer to you Feel the rain of Revolution Now i'm getting closer to you There's no time for your illusions (now)

Work of Fusedmarc is not an experiment but an unique audiovisual experience, a no-compromise combination of different musical genres, bold arrangements, unpredictable vocal explosions and conceptual video installations. From the very beginning, Fusedmarc music was focused on a wider range of listeners. The group soon became the main Lithuanian export to serious foreign multimedia festivals. Besides the Baltic countries, the band has visited Germany, England, France, Netherlands, Poland, Hungary, Russia, and Greece. Fusedmarc will represent Lithuania in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017, with the song "Rain of Revolution".

Looking for the reasons I'm still on the road If i gotta stop and choose yeah yeah Feel iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m gonna travel again Making a start making a start Making a start and let the light shine through me

RAIN OF REVOLUTION

Dance to the Rhythm of the soul / of your soul (X 8) Now i'm getting closer to you Feel the rain of Revolution Now i'm getting closer to you There's no time for your illusion (now))

Fusedmarc

ÂŠ Photo: Viktorija Drozdova, Maksim Orlov

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

18 ESTONIA Songwriter

Participant

Song

Sven Lõhmus

KOIT TOMEE & LAURA

VERONA

Koit Toome and Sirli Hiius were members of the highly successful pop duo Code One, formed by the producer Mikk Targo in late 1994. A long run of top hits in Estonian music charts were to follow until 1998, when the duo split. Sleeping all alone In 1998, Koit Toome represented Estonia at the Eurovision Song Contest, held in you wake up with a bottle in your hands no sound of serenade cause we both know we lost Birmingham. He finished 12th with 36 points with the song "Mere lapsed“. The same year he recorded his debut solo album of mostly self-penned material on it. our game Koit Toome has released five albums all together, both as a solo artist and with Code One. In 2007 he won Tantsud tähtedega (Dancing with the Stars) with Kertu I was always high on loving you Tänav. In March 2010,he released his first studio album, named "Kaugele siit" ("Far before the romance turned to drama from here"). like Romeo and Juliet once before Laura (full name: Laura Põldvere)started her career in 2005, when she was we are lost in Verona participating in Eurolaul 2005 with the song "Moonwalk". "Moonwalk" came second, but Laura won the contest as the member of the girl group Suntribe. The Learning through the scars group represented Estonia in Eurovision Song Contest 2005. Laura also took part at will make you stronger time is the proof "Eurolaul 2007" for the ESC 2007, her entry "Sunflowers" came third. In September I ´m not a loner kind 2007 Laura released her debut album "Muusa" and started studies in Berklee I know I just cant get over you College, Boston U.S., putting her music career on hold. In 2009, she was back by entering the new format Eesti Laul as a solo singer in I was always trying to tell the truth hopes of representing Estonia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2009, her entry before the romance turned to drama "Destiny" came third. In November 2011 Laura released her first compilation album I hope the best in me was always you "Sädemeid taevast", which consisted of all her singles since 2005 to 2011 as well as before we lost our Verona a track from her second studio album "Ultra". Laura once again attempted to represent Estonia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016, entering Eesti Laul with the We are lost song "Supersonic". It placed second in the Superfinal. In Eesti Laul 2017, she lost in the crowd of the street competed in a duet with Koit Toome, with the song "Verona" and won. They will we are lost therefore, represent Estonia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv. like two sailing boats in the sea we are lost `cause sometimes we building and burning down love we are lost our Verona

VERONA

... We lost and we found our Verona .... We are lost in Verona Reckless type of love,reckless type of love we never said I`m sorry we never said enough this western type of woman; western type of man disappeared in Verona

Laura Official lauraofficial.com Koit Toome

SEMI FINAL 2

May 11, 2017

Songwriter

Participant

Song

Dolev Ram Penn Hazut

IMRI

I FEEL ALIVE

IMRI‎)full name: Imri Ziv) was was part of a boyband when he studied at Ilan Ramon High School. While doing his obligatory military service, he practiced in a musical band of the Education and Youth Corps Unit of the Israel Defense Forces.

The secret of my life Is never givin' up Now I'm close to you Walking through the stars Brings me to the start When I won with you I was waiting way too much For something good to come And I'm a bit fragile Was waiting way too much It's like an hourglass And you like trouble Breaking me to pieces I wanted you to know that Every piece broke from you Breaking me to pieces 'Coz every time You come around I feel alive - Now I'm trying I'm trying I feel alive! I feel alive!

In 2012, he auditioned for the inaugural edition of the television talent show The Voice Israel, singing "‫ "אהובתי‬with 2 judges of four, Sarit Hadad and Rami Kleinstein turning their chairs. Being part of Team Rami, he proceeded to the Battle Rounds singing "‫ "פרפרים‬and was eliminated by mentor Kleinstein who opted for advancing teammate rival Orit Shalom. IMRI performed as a backing vocalist in Israel's Eurovision Song Contest 2015 and 2016 entries, respectively with Nadav Guedj singing "Golden Boy" and Hovi Star singing "Made of Stars" with both qualifying to the finals. He participated in season 4 of HaKokhav HaBa L'Eurovizion, the reality singing competition "The Next Star for Eurovision", being the Israeli format of Rising Star. After winning HaKokhav HaBa L'Eurovizion, Ziv will now represent Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with his song "I Feel Alive“.

The years I've been alone Far away from home Reminded me of you My job is almost done Baby I can now Escape away with you I was waiting way too much For something good to come And I'm a bit fragile Was waiting way too much It's like an hourglass And you like trouble

I FEEL ALIVE

Breaking me to pieces I wanted you to know that Every piece broke from you Breaking me to pieces 'Coz every time - You come around I feel alive - Now I'm trying I'm trying I feel alive! So alive - Alive, alive, alive Breaking me to pieces I wanted you to know that Every piece broke from you Breaking me to pieces 'Coz every time You come around I feel alive

IMRI

ÂŠ Photo: Ronen Akerman

F1 FRANCE Songwriter

Participant

Song

Nazim Khaled Alexandra Maquet

ALMA

REQUIEM

Alma (real name: Alexandra Maquet) grew up in Lyon with two younger sisters. After graduating from a business school, she wanted to devote herself to her passion for music. She met Nazim, a young singer-songwriter, who became her artistic partner with whom she composed most of the songs of her first album.

Des amours meurent Des amours naissent Les siècles passent et disparaissent Ce que tu crois être la mort C'est une saison et rien de plus Un jour lassé de cette errance Tu t'en iras quelle importance Car la Terre tournera encore Même quand nous ne tournerons plus Embrasse-moi, dis-moi que tu m'aimes Fais-moi sourire au beau milieu d'un requiem Embrasse-moi, dis-moi que tu m'aimes Fais-moi danser jusqu'à ce que le temps nous reprenne Ce qu'il a donné Will you take me to paradise With you nothing ever dies You take my smile and make it bright Before the night erase the light I won't go below silver skies The only dark is in your eyes On pleure mais on survit quand même C'est la beauté du requiem Les étincelles deviennent des flammes Les petites filles deviennent des femmes Ce que tu crois être l'amour C'est un brasier et rien de plus Nos déchirures, nos déchéances On pense qu'elles ont de l'importance

For this project she has managed to unite a team of directors, authors and composers who have already collaborated with great success but have adapted to her voice and subtle words to evolve them into a custom universe: Nazim , David Gategno (Céline Dion, Louane), Pierre Jaconelli (Benjamin Biolay, Johnny Hallyday), Renaud Rebillaud (Master Gims, Black M), The Skydancers / We are IV (Frero Delavega , Vianney), Franck Authié (Irma, Greg June) and Jeremy Poligné (Julie Zenatti). In June 2016 she released her debut single "La chute est lente“. On 9 February 2017 Alma was announced as the French representative to the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song "Requiem", penned by Khaled.

REQUIEM

Mais demain renaîtra le jour Comme si nous n'avions pas vécu Embrasse-moi, dis-moi que tu m'aimes Fais-moi sourire au beau milieu d'un requiem Embrasse-moi, dis-moi que tu m'aimes Fais-moi danser jusqu'à ce que le temps nous reprenne Ce qu'il a donné

Alma officiel alma-music.fr

F2 GERMANY Songwriter

Participant

Song

Lindy Robbins Dave Bassett Lindsey Ray

LEVINA

PERFECT LIVE

Levina was born in Bonn as Isabella Lueen, and was raised in Chemnitz. She attended the Dr.-Wilhelm-André-Gymnasium, and graduated with an International Baccalaureate degree. She then moved to London where she earned her bachelor's degree from King's College London. She splits her time between Berlin and London, where she studies music management at the London College of Music.

I come alive Inside the light of the unexpected Maybe I thrive Outside the comfort zone What is a prize without a fight Yeah I got addicted To what I thought I wanted And all along

In 2016, Levina was announced as one of the 33 shortlisted acts for ‘Unser Song 2017’. On 6 January 2017, she was confirmed to be one of the five finalists. During the show, Levina performed a cover of When We Were Young by Adele for the cover round. She ended up advancing to the final as the sole artist left, performing the songs Wildfire and Perfect Life. The German public went on to choose the latter as the winner. Levina will now perform Perfect Life at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv. As Germany is a member of the "Big Five", she will automatically advance to the ESC final.

I've been walking asleep Dreaming awake Finding I bend but I don't break Almost a sinner Nearly a saint Finding with every breath I take I'm not afraid Of making mistakes Sometimes it's wrong before it's right That's what you call a perfect life Gathering thorns from the stems of a thousand roses Weathering storms on the long way home I look for the sweet in every bitter moment tasted In every last mistake I see the other side I've been walking asleep Dreaming awake Finding I bend but I don't break Almost a sinner Nearly a saint Finding with every breath I take I'm not afraid Of making mistakes Sometimes it's wrong before it's right That's what you call a perfect That's what you call a perfect That's what you call a perfect life I've been walking asleep Dreaming awake Finding I bend but I don't break Almost a sinner Nearly a saint Finding with every breath I take I'm not afraid Of making mistakes Sometimes it's wrong before it's right That's what you call a perfect That's what you call a perfect That's what you call a perfect life

PERFECT LIVE

Levina Music Levinamusic.de

98| 99

F3 ITALY Songwriter

Participant

Song

Francesco Gabbani, Fabio Ilacqua Filippo Gabbani, Luca Chiaravalli

FRANCESCO GABBANI

OCCIDENTALIS KARMA

Francesco Gabbani started playing drums age 4 and studied guitar with 7. He released his debut album Greitist Iz in 2010. He was then signed to BMG Rights Management in 2015. The following year, he was announced as a competitor in the newcomers section of the Sanremo Music Festival 2016 with the song "Amen", which went on to win the competition. The song also won the Mia Martini Critics Award. "Amen" was released as the lead single from the album Eternamente ora, and was certified platinum by the Federation of the Italian Music Industry.

Essere o dover essere - Il dubbio amletico Contemporaneo come l’uomo del neolitico L’intelligenza è démodé Risposte facili… Dilemmi inutili… AAA cercasi (cerca sì) Storie dal gran finale Sperasi (spera sì) Comunque vada panta rei And singing in the rain Lezioni di Nirvana C’è il Buddha in fila indiana Per tutti un’ora d’aria, di gloria, Alè La folla grida un mantra L’evoluzione inciampa La scimmia nuda balla Occidentali’s Karma - Occidentali’s Karma La scimmia nuda balla - Occidentali’s Karma

In 2016, Gabbani composed the soundtrack of Italian comedy film Poveri ma ricchi, directed by Fausto Brizzi. The song "Foglie al gelo" was released in December 2016 as a single from the film's soundtrack album. Francesco returned to the Sanremo Music Festival the following year, winning in the "Big Artists" section with the song "Occidentali's Karma". As a result, he also became the first performer to win both sections of the Sanremo Music Festival in two consecutive years. After his win at Sanremo 2017, it was revealed by RAI that Gabbani had accepted the offer to represent Italy in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017.

AAA cercasi (cerca sì) Umanità virtuale Sex appeal (sex appeal) Comunque vada panta rei And singing in the rain Lezioni di Nirvana C’è il Buddha in fila indiana Per tutti un’ora d’aria, di gloria La folla grida un mantra L’evoluzione inciampa La scimmia nuda balla Occidentali’s Karma - Occidentali’s Karma La scimmia nuda balla - Occidentali’s Karma

OCCIDENTALIS KARMA

Quando la vita si distrae - Cadono gli uomini Occidentali’s Karma - Occidentali’s Karma La scimmia si rialza - Namasté Alé Lezioni di Nirvana - C’è il Buddha in fila indiana Per tutti un’ora d’aria, di gloria La folla grida un mantra L’evoluzione inciampa La scimmia nuda balla Occidentali’s Karma - Occidentali’s Karma La scimmia nuda balla - Occidentali’s Karma Om

Francesco Gabbani official francescogabbani.com

100 | 101

F4 SPAIN Songwriter

Participant

Song

Manel Navarro Antonio Rayo “Rayito”

MANEL NAVARRO

DO IT FOR YOUR LOVER

DO IT FOR YOUR LOVER A veces cuesta decir todo lo que uno piensa A veces la vida causa estragos sin que te des cuenta A veces parece que es como una melodía Frustrada y perdida no nos deja ver la luz del día Do it for your lover, do it for your lover babe, clap your hands and do it for your lover. Do it for your lover, do it for your lover babe, clap your hands and do it for your lover, Do it for your lover, do it for your lover, Do it for those you ever care and love

Manel Navarro (full name: Manel Navarro Quesada) first came to prominence in 2014, when he won the second edition of the regional contest for young singers Catalunya Teen Star with an acoustic cover of "Hold On, We're Going Home" by Drake. Following his victory, he was signed to record label TeenStarRecords, and released his debut single, "Brand New Day", on 4 December 2014. Manel served as the opening act at Sweet California's 2015 tour Wonder Tour. In 2015 he was signed to Sony Music Spain and on 24 June 2016, he released his first single with Sony, "Candle", which reached number two at Spotify's Viral 50 chart in Spain. In January 2017 Navarro's second single "Do It for Your Lover" was released. On 12 January 2017, Navarro was announced as one of the six candidates to represent Spain in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with "Do It for Your Lover“. On 11 February 2017, he was declared the winner of the national final amid much controversy, and will represent Spain at the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Coge mi mano, no cierres esa puerta Deja que el dolor y la tristeza desaparezcan Así que pega un grito, sal ahí y vuela Y verás que por los tuyos siempre vale la pena Así que Do it for your lover, do it for your lover babe, clap your hands and do it for your lover. Do it for your lover, do it for your lover babe, clap your hands and do it for your lover, Do it for your lover, do it for your lover, Do it for those you ever care and love Just do it, just do it, just do it for your lover Just do it, just do it, just do it for your lover, Just do it, just do it, just do it for your lover Just do it just do it, just do it for your lover.

DO IT FOR YOUR LOVER

Do it for your lover, do it for your lover babe, clap your hands and do it for your lover. Do it for your lover, do it for your lover babe, clap your hands and do it for your lover, Do it for your lover, do it for your lover, Do it for those you ever care and love

Manel Navarro official

102 | 103

F5 Ukraine Songwriter

Participant

Song

Zhenia Galych Denys Miziuk Kamenchuk Yevhen

O. TORVALD

TIME

O.Torvald is a Ukrainian rock band consisting of the current members:

Slow down - Give me some time Turn down - The volume of your cry Let’s take time to find A place without violence Let's listen and hear The true meaning of silence

Yevhen Halych — vocals, guitar (2005–present) Denys Myzyuk – guitar, backing vocals (2005–present) Oleksandr Solokha — drums (2011–present) Mykyta Vasylʹyev — bass (2014–present) Mykola Rayda — piano, DJ (2008–present)

Time to look Time to see Time to find Time to look into your eyes Time to find truth Time against the lies Time will give us a sign I can make a promise It's our time to shine

The band was formed in 2005 in Poltava, Ukraine. Its debut album “O.Torvald” was recorded in 2008. O.Torvald took part in festivals such as GBOB, Chervona Ruta, Tavria games, Prosto Rock (with Linkin Park and Garbage), Zakhid, Krashche Misto UA (with Evanescence and The Rasmus), Ekolomyja and Global Gathering. O.Torvald will represent Ukraine in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017 with the song "Time“.

Just listen Take a look around Stop missing The things you haven't found You will realize There's no common ground There's no compromise Between the time and sound Time to look Time to see Time to find Time to look into your eyes Time to find truth Time against the lies Time will give us a sign I can make a promise It's our time to shine

TIME

Time to look Time to see Time to find Time to look into your eyes Time to find truth Time against the lies Time will give us a sign I can make a promise It's our time to shine

O. Torvald o-torvald.com

104 | 105

ÂŠ Photo: Olga Tretyakova

F6 UNITED KINGDOM Songwriter

Emmelie de Forest Daniel Salcedo Lawrie Martin NEVER GIVE UP ON YOU Tell me your secrets - I’ll keep ‘em safe No sign of weakness, it’s a sign of a faith We’ll stand tall - So you don’t fall You're not defeated - You're in repair Don’t have to call me I’ll always be there We’ll stand tall - So you don’t fall If you could see how far you’ve walked You would see that all’s not lost I will never give up on you I don’t care what I've got to lose Just give me your hand and hold on Together we’ll dance through this storm I will never give up on you You’re the one that I’m running to Just give me your hand and hold on Together we’ll dance through this storm Under the surface - I see you glow I’m right beside you - You’re never alone Don’t let go - When you’re so close If you could see how far you’ve walked You would see that all’s not lost I will never give up on you I don’t care what I've got to lose Just give me your hand and hold on Together we’ll dance through this storm I will never give up on you You’re the one that I’m running to Just give me your hand and hold on Together we’re dancing through

Participant

Song

LUCIE JONES

NEVER GIVE UP ON YOU

Lucie Jones (full name: Lucie Bethan Jones) attended the World Scout Jamboree as a Scout, and was the main performer singing "Jambo", the theme song of the jamboree in 2007. She first came to prominence while competing on series 6 of The X Factor UK in 2009, where she placed eighth. After being eliminated from The X Factor, Lucie was signed to Select Model Management and began a modeling career. In May 2010 she was signed by Cameron Mackintosh to play Cosette in the West End production of Les Misérables. In September 2010 she was revealed to be the face of Wonderbra's Full Effects campaign. In the same year she appeared in The Sarah Jane Adventures episode, "Lost in Time: Part Two". Jones also played the role of Victoria in the musical American Psycho at the Almeida Theatre in December 2013. In February 2015, Lucie appeared as Melody Carver in ITV's Midsomer Murders, in the episode "The Ballad of Midsomer County". In April 2015, Lucie played the role of Emma in the showcase performance of Like Me, at The Waterloo East Theatre. In March 2015, she was cast as Molly in the Chinese tour of Ghost the Musical. In April 2016, she played the lead role of Elle Woods in the Legally Blonde UK tour which started at Curve Leicester. In 2016, she was cast as Maureen Johnson in the UK tour of Rent. In January 2017 Lucie was confirmed to be competing in Eurovision: You Decide, the United Kingdom's national final for the Eurovision Song Contest 2017. Her song, "Never Give Up on You", was cowritten by Eurovision Song Contest 2013 winner Emmelie de Forest. On 27 January 2017 Lucie won the show and will now represent the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest

NEVER GIVE UP ON YOU

This madness - We’re running through There’s magic- It’s inside of you It’s madness - It’s madness Now you can see how far you’ve walked The mountains climbed, the oceans crossed I don’t care what I've got to lose Just give me your hand and hold on Together we’ll dance through this storm I will never give up on you You’re the one that I’m running to So give me your hand and hold on Together we’ll dance through this storm

106 | 107

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